Modiolus
Modiolus is a genus of mussels, a type of bivalve mollusc, belonging to the family Mytilidae. They are commonly known as “horse mussels” and are found in marine environments worldwide.
Characteristics
Modiolus mussels are characterized by their elongated, wedge-shaped shells with a prominent beak at the anterior end. They have a smooth, shiny surface that can be various shades of brown, black, or gray. The shells are typically thin and brittle, but can be quite large, reaching lengths of up to 15 cm. These mussels possess a strong byssus thread, a fibrous attachment used to secure themselves to hard surfaces such as rocks, reefs, and even other mussels.
Environment
Modiolus mussels inhabit intertidal and subtidal zones in a variety of marine environments. They prefer to live in areas with strong currents and wave action, as this helps to bring them food and oxygen. These mussels are often found in aggregations, forming dense beds on the seafloor.
Common Names
Modiolus mussels are known by a variety of common names, including:
- Horse mussel
- Blue mussel (in some regions)
- False mussel
References
For further information about Modiolus mussels, please refer to the following websites: