Frozen Mussel

Frozen Mussel

The blue mussel (Mytilus edulis), also known as the common mussel, is a medium-sized edible marine bivalve mollusc in the family Mytilidae, the mussels. Blue mussels are subject to commercial use and intensive aquaculture. A species with a large range, empty shells are commonly found on beaches around the world.

Description

Mussels are bivalve shellfish. At harvest time, they are generally two to three inches in length. The shell is primarily a blackish color with bluish highlights and has an elongated triangular shape.

Distribution

Mussels are eurythermal and are able to withstand freezing conditions for several months. Blue mussels are well acclimated to a 5 to 20℃ temperature range, with an upper sustained thermal tolerance limit of about 29℃ for adults. Blue mussels do not thrive in salinities of less than 15%, but can withstand wide environmental fluctuations. Their depth ranges from 5 to 10 meters. Usually, mussel is found in subtidal and intertidal beds on rocky shores, and remain permanently attached there. The range of mussels is limited by the movement of drifting larval and juvenile stages.

Environmental applications