Period: 1.11.2023 - 28.2.2025

Content: Project Freshwater Mussel - An Aquaculture Investigation is Ongoing in 2024, Scheduled to Conclude in Early 2025. The aim is to explore the various potential uses of freshwater mussels. Initially, both the common and larger freshwater mussel species are being considered. These mussels are efficient filter feeders, capable of processing up to 40 liters per day, which could be advantageous for environmental purification.

Common Occurrence: The freshwater mussel is Finland’s most prevalent freshwater bivalve species. It inhabits both lakes and watercourses, typically growing to around 10 cm in length, although some individuals can reach up to 14 cm. Its shell has a distinctive shape, with the upper and lower edges converging backward. The soft tissues are gray or grayish-yellow, in contrast to the larger freshwater mussel’s distinctly orange-colored soft parts.

Filtration Capacity: The freshwater mussel is relatively large and is considered an effective filter feeder. It can contribute to water purification by filtering particles and nutrients. Given the common issue of murky bays in lakes and along coastlines, freshwater mussels could serve as a form of “purification plant” in bio-remediation projects. Cultivating mussels in polluted bays could enhance water quality and restore negatively impacted environments.

Aquaculture and Commercial Potential: A freshwater mussel-focused project should include a comprehensive investigation into its aquaculture potential. Additionally, exploration of areas where this species can be used as a commercial product is essential. Possible applications include feed production, gourmet products, cosmetics, and restoration of damaged environments (such as vulnerable bays or in combination with fish farming). By promoting the ecological role and economic potential of freshwater mussels, we can contribute to a more sustainable future for our aquatic environments.

A collaboration with Jyväskylä University involves researching how to artificially propagate Anadonta in a laboratory environment. This process yields young mussels that can be planted in watercourses. However, the reproduction of these mussels is quite unique: Freshwater mussels have fascinating reproductive biology. While they are typically dioecious (separate sexes), hermaphroditism and sex change can occur. Males release their sperm directly into the water, which is then taken in by females through their filtering system. The fertilized eggs remain in the females’ gills for several weeks and are subsequently expelled as so-called glochidial larvae. To develop into a mussel, the larva must go through a parasitic stage in the gills of a fish. The choice of host fish species can vary.

Project Goals:

Investigation and Compilation: We will examine how freshwater mussels are suitable for aquaculture in our latitudes. Additionally, we will explore the methods that can be employed. We will gather information about the mussel’s diet, its impact on nearby fish and other species, and how it affects water quality. General calculations will also be conducted to assess how mussel cultivation impacts the local environment, including nutrient uptake, turbidity, and algal occurrences.
Tissue Analysis and Quality: We plan to conduct competitive tissue analyses and collect samples from mussels for heavy metal, toxin, and nutritional value analysis. The results will be compiled to assess the quality of freshwater mussels for potential use in the feed, environmental, and food industries.
Information and Communication: As part of the project, we will create popular science articles, establish a dedicated website, and disseminate information through local newspapers and social media. We have a communication plan that we will follow from the project’s inception.

Focus area: Bioekonomi och hållbart nyttjande av naturresurser

Campus: Raseborg

Financers: EHFVF Europeiska havs-, fiskeri- och vattenbruksfonden

Project owner: YH Novia

Project manager: Anita Storm