Mediterranean Mussel

Mytilus galloprovincialis

Explore the Mediterranean Mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) species record in The Ark Is Earth, including classification, habitat, distribution, conservation information, and sources.

Summary

The Mediterranean Mussel is a marine bivalve found on rocky coasts and other hard surfaces across temperate and subtropical waters worldwide. It anchors itself with strong byssal threads and filters plankton from the water. Dense beds provide habitat and improve water clarity, and the species is also important to shellfish aquaculture.

Classification in this archive

Animals › Mollusca › Bivalves › Mytilida › Mytilidae › Mytilus

Habitat and distribution

Regions in this record: Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America

Demonstration note

[DEMO] Mediterranean mussels tolerate warm, salty water and can form dense beds on wave-washed shores.