Aquascope

Introduction

Forms of aquaculture

Why aquaculture

History

Which specie

Problems associated with aquaculture

Cultivating molluscs

Cultivating blue mussels

Cultivation methods

Problems associated with mussel cultivation

Threats

Poisonous mussels?

Foodstuffs
(recipe)

 

Pole cultivation is most common in France and it is said that it has its origins when an Irish sailor, Patrick Walton, wanted to catch sea birds by using a net that was hung up on a serie of poles. The story originates from 1235 and the Irish sailor did not catch many birds, but on the other hand a great many blue mussels grew on the poles. Stout poles, commonly of oak, are driven into the bottom of long shallow bays within relatively protected areas. These poles are placed in such a way so that at high tide they are completely submerged, but at low tide are left dry so that harvesting can take place. To give the mussels as much space as possible, the outer layer of mussels is removed and transplanted onto new poles. This process is repeated several times during their life time before they are finally harvested. In some areas of France, ropes are wound around the poles to increase their surface area and make it easier for imported blue mussel larvae to attach themselves.

 

In areas with small tidal variations and no winter ice, another cultivation method is possible. A framework with loose hanging ropes is either supported by poles or anchored on a cliff face above the waterline. Even with this method of cultivation, small mussels are brought from tidal areas and attached to the ropes.

 

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© Aquascope 2000   Tjärnö Marine Biological Laboratory, Strömstad, Sweden
Bo Johannesson | Martin Larsvik | Lars-Ove Loo | Helena Samuelsson