Performance of Mussels, Mytilus edulis, Mytilus trossulus, and Their Hybrids in Cultivation at Three Scottish Lochs

Abstract

Mussel aquaculture is a growing industry in Scotland, dominated by the production of Mytilus edulis. However, Mytilus trossulus, Mytilus galloprovincialis, and their hybrids with M. edulis have recently been detected in Scotland. At some farms, M. trossulus have been associated with significant losses in production because of presenting low meat yields and fragile shells. In the present study, M. edulis, M. trossulus, and their hybrids were examined from three cultivation areas in order to investigate shell and meat characteristics and advise on future management of mixed‐species areas in Scotland. Results suggest that M. edulis is likely to consistently outperform M. trossulus and hybrids in mixed‐species areas, but that M. trossulus meat yields from different areas can vary considerably. The ability to classify mussels into two (M. edulis and non‐edulis) groups suggests that separation of M. trossulus genotypes could potentially be achieved by grading the harvested mussels. In the most affected areas, however, the fallowing of cultivation sites and importation of unispecific M. edulis spat appear as an alternative. Management of this problem in Scotland is likely to involve the implementation of area‐specific measures, and the establishment of clear guidance on good practice aiming at preventing further distribution of M. trossulus.