California Mussel

Mytilus californianus

California Mussel

This mussel packs surf battered rocks and wharf piles in dense beds through the mid to high tide zone, anchored by tough byssal threads. It filters detritus and plankton, but from late spring into autumn it takes up dinoflagellates that can make it toxic to eat.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Mollusca › Bivalvia › Mytilida › Mytilidae › Mytilus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 367837.

FAQ

How deep does the California Mussel live?
The California Mussel (Mytilus californianus) is typically found at 0–100 m.
How big does the California Mussel get?
The California Mussel grows to about 25.5 cm.