Variability of growth rate in Mytilus edulis L. from the Chupa Inlet (the White Sea)

Abstract

Length growth of mussels Mytilus edulis L. was studied in the White Sea in four habitats after reciprocal transplantation during a one-year period (1987–1988) and summer period (1989). Mussels from different habitats, size and age groups were marked individually and put in net cages. The cages were located in intertidal zone, subtidal zone and on suspended aquaculture rafts. Habitat appeared to be the most important factor for growth of mussels. In spite of origin and age/length characteristics in intertidal zone, mussels grew approximately 2 times slower than in subtidal zone and 3–5 times slower than in suspended conditions. Age or length of mussels was the second most important growth factor. Type of habitat where the mussels came from (“origin”) appeared to have no influence on growth. Model of mussel growth in different habitats in relation to seasonal temperatures, molluscs age or length is given.