Shellfish Seed for
Independent Growers
High Survival Rates, High Growth Rates, Customer Satisfaction
For 40+ years A.R.C. has been concentrating on spawning, growing and nurturing the highest-quality shellfish seed for independent farmer/growers. Our much-desired lines of broodstock are mixed with carefully selected wild-caught specimens to produce seed shellfish that can withstand environmental events as it grows to market-size. Three strategically placed nurseries allow the seed to grow to desired size in low densities and healthy environments. No matter where our seed is grown to market-size, they will look inviting and taste delicious!
“Great company that has produced millions upon millions of good shellfish seed which have, in turn, produced many jobs and food scattered throughout the Eastern coastal states.” - Gregg M.
How To Order
We are currently taking orders for 2026, please complete an order form then email completed to seed@archatchery.com, or print and mail to P.O. Box 2028, Dennis, MA 02638.
Order acceptance does not guarantee order fulfillment. To ensure the highest probability of your order being filled, please place orders as early as possible.
Seed orders are filled on a priority system:
-
Orders for seed of specific sizes are filled when those sizes become available, and in the order of the dates deposits are received (minimum 20%).
-
Occasionally, A.R.C. will accept seed orders without deposits, but they will be filled only after the orders with deposits.
Payment is due upon delivery of the seed, municipalities exempt.
Minimum order: $500 (per size, per species)
Frequently Asked Questions
Oysters
We take great pride in the consistency and quality of our oyster seed. A lineage of oysters chosen for desirable traits such as fast growth rate, healthy meat, deep cups and attractive presentation result in customer satisfaction from Farm to Table. A.R.C. sells both Diploid and Triploid oyster seed from 2-25 mm in size.
Quahogs (Hard-Shelled Clams)
A.R.C. built its reputation on producing the finest hard-shelled clam seed on the East Coast. These Quahogs are bred using high standards in the selection of broodstock, a growing system developed and adapted over the last 40 years, and careful attention to the specific needs of juvenile clams during critical growth stages.
Specialty Orders
A.R.C. often sells seed in sizes smaller than the standard R1.5 – R3/4 and will spawn other species such as Surf Clams, Razor Clams and DBY Oysters to order. Call 508-385-3933 x3 for information and quotes on spawning “specialty” species, and for quotes on orders for sizes other than standard.