Mussel is a common name applied to various edible bivalve mollusks. The term mussel can refer to either fresh water or marine species of bivalves belonging to several families, including the Unionidae, Mytilidae, and Margaritiferidae. Freshwater mussels are found in slow-moving streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds throughout the world; marine mussels are found on every continent except Antarctica. Mussels are filter feeders that extract nutrients from suspended particles in water by drawing water into their bodies through the incurrent siphon. As they feed, they also help cleanse their habitats of pollutants and excess nutrients that can lead to harmful algal blooms. Some species of mussel have been shown to play an important role in bioremediation efforts aimed at cleaning up contaminated waters.
Mussels are an important food source for humans and wildlife alike. Freshwater mussels are harvested for food in many parts of the world; marine mussels are harvested commercially in some countries but are also often collected by recreational fishermen. Both wild-caught and farmed mussels are sold fresh, canned, or frozen; the latter two product types usually have a longer shelf life than fresh mussels. In addition to being eaten as whole animals, muscle meat from both freshwater and marine mussels is used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes including soups, stews, chowders, pastas, pizzas, and more. The shells of some species of mussel can also be used to make pearl buttons and other decorative items.
Mussel aquaculture is a growing industry worldwide; it offers a sustainable source of fresh seafood while providing income and employment opportunities in coastal communities. Marinemussel farming is well establishedin Europeand North America; freshwatermussel farmingis less common but is becoming more widespread as demand for these products increases. Aquaculturedmusselsare typically grown on ropes or nets suspended from rafts or docks in sheltered areas with low currents where they will not be disturbed by predators or disturbance from boat traffic. Once they reach market size (usually after 1-2 years), they are harvested using mechanical devices or by hand-picking them off the culturing gear .