Mytilus (genus) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mytilus |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Mytilus edulis in the intertidal zone in Cornwall, England | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Subclass: |
Pteriomorphia
|
| Order: |
Mytiloida
|
| Family: | |
| Genus: |
Mytilus
Linnaeus, 1798
|
Mytilus is a group of common mussels that live in the ocean. These mussels are medium to large in size. They belong to a type of sea animal called bivalve molluscs. Mussels are known for being edible, meaning people can eat them. You might find them in different stews and soups. In nature, they attach themselves to hard surfaces like rocks using special, strong threads called byssus threads.
Contents
Types of Mussels in the Mytilus Group
There are several different kinds of mussels within the Mytilus group. These include some of the most well-known mussels around the world.
The Blue Mussel Family
One important group is called the Mytilus edulis complex. This includes:
- Mytilus edulis: This is the famous blue mussel, also known as the edible blue mussel.
- Mytilus galloprovincialis: This mussel is often called the Mediterranean mussel.
- Mytilus trossulus: This one is sometimes called the foolish mussel.
Other Important Mytilus Mussels
Beyond the blue mussel group, there are other notable species:
- Mytilus californianus: This mussel is found along the coast of California.
- Mytilus coruscus: This species is also part of the Mytilus genus.
How People Use Mytilus Mussels
Mytilus mussels are a very popular food source for humans. People around the world enjoy eating them.
Mussels as Food for a Long Time
In California, Native American people have been eating these mussels for nearly 12,000 years. This shows how important mussels have been as a food source for a very long time. They are still a common seafood today.
Images for kids
-
Mytilus edulis shells on the beach
See also
In Spanish: Mytilus para niños
