Abstract The shellfish mariculture industry of Maine was once dominated by oysters. In recent years, however, that emphasis has shifted to the harvest of wild and cultured blue mussels (Mytilus edulis). More than 300 metric tons are currently being harvested annually by the region's largest mussel farm alone; total production in Maine (the nation's leader in mussel harvest) in 1985 exceeded 2.9 million kg, with a value of $2.1 million. Production goals of over 10,000 kg of meat/ha annually are currently being met; potential production may exceed 12,000 kg/ha/yr in areas of high currents. Although several types of suspended culture are used in northern New England and the Canadian Maritimes, most production is from natural beds or “cultured” beds where mussels have been redistributed by culturists to reduce density and increase shellfish growth. Overcoming marketing constraints, by cleaning shells and reducing the incidence of pearls, has led to this growing industry. Further expansion will require address...