UK: University of Stirling study could lead to improved mussel production

University of Stirling study could lead to improved mussel production. Innovative new research by the University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture could help improve mussel farming practices and lead to increased production. Blue mussel aquaculture is an important sustainable and eco-friendly way of producing a protein source, but the industry has been facing challenges resulting in production fluctuations. Mussel farming has a low impact on the environment because they require no food, grow on ropes and, by nature of being bivalves, they even clean the water around them. They also sequester carbon from the atmosphere in their shells. The University of Stirling study saw scientists take samples from farms on Scotland’s Atlantic coast before carrying out genetic analysis. Researchers discovered regular genetic mixing changes local populations. The findings could help mussel farmers with site selection, stocking strategies, and management practices. This could lead to more ...