An international study led by Curtin University has put to bed a scientific debate dating back 176 years, confirming that two historically significant oyster species from Western Australia and Fiji are distinct species. By combining historic museum collections with modern DNA technology, the research provides new insights into marine biodiversity across the Indo-Pacific and helps strengthen the scientific foundation for future conservation efforts. Saccostrea scyphophilla is found along WA's coast, across northern and eastern Australia, and the Indo-Pacific, while Saccostrea mordax occurs further north and east from Asia to Fiji. Using modern DNA sequencing, the research has now confirmed the two oysters are genetically distinct species. A new reference specimen for Saccostrea scyphophilla was established and deposited at the Western Australian Museum.