Blue mussel [Mytilus edulis]
Description
The blue mussel is a medium-sized species that can reach a length of 20 cm. It has a broad distribution, found in the Northern Hemisphere across the coasts of North America and Europe. It is a filter feeder and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by filtering out phytoplankton and other particles. The shell is usually blue or purple, but can vary from light brown to black, and is covered with a layer of periostracum which is usually worn off.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Mussels
Mytilida
|
| Family |
True Mussels
Mytilidae
|
| Genus |
Blue Mussels
Mytilus
|