Mussels
Mytilidae
Appearance
Mussels change size throughout the year! They are the biggest in October but shrink and are the smallest in March.
Range & Habitat
Reciprocal relationships
The Dog Whelk, a type of sea snail, is one of the main non-human predators of mussels. To attack the mussel, Dog Whelks create a hole in the mussel’s shell and consume the mussel through the hole. However, mussels can fight back! If the mussel reacts fast enough, it can use the same tool it uses to attach to rocks — its byssal threads — to trap the Dog Whelk onto its shell. The Dog Whelk can still eat the mussel, but stays stuck to its shell and also dies.
Mussels’ byssal threads are incredibly strong and can stick themselves to most surfaces. Scientists are now attempting to develop a glue based on mussels’ byssal threads for use in surgery. Mussels are also a popular food, often cooked in broth. Mussel meat is very rich in protein. In fact, it contains more protein than beef stock! It also is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a nutritious choice of seafood.
Mussels can be found in different countries around the world. Because of this, organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council have been working to make sure there is sustainable mussel harvesting.