The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 400
Marine mussels are common inhabitants of rocky shores, tidal zones, and coastal waters around the world. Anchoring themselves with strong byssal threads, they withstand powerful waves while filtering plankton and organic particles from seawater. Dense mussel beds create complex habitats that shelter many other marine organisms.
By filtering large volumes of water, marine mussels improve water clarity and recycle nutrients within coastal ecosystems. They are a vital food source for seabirds, fish, and marine mammals, and have long been harvested by humans. Resilient and adaptable, marine mussels play a key role in maintaining healthy shorelines and vibrant marine communities.