Mytilus edulis

Mytilus edulis, commonly known as the blue mussel, is a bivalve mollusk found along Atlantic coasts of North America and Europe. It has a sturdy, elongated shell that can vary in color from blue to black. These mussels attach firmly to rocks and other surfaces in intertidal zones using byssal threads. They are filter feeders, drawing in seawater to extract plankton and organic particles for nutrition. Blue mussels play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitat for other marine life. They are also widely harvested for food, appreciated for their taste and nutritional value.