GENETIC STUDIES OF THE BLUE MUSSEL, Mytilus edulis, AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL CULTURE

ABSTRACT Genetic differences among natural populations of the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) appear to have implications for commercial exploitation of the species. Growth and mortality patterns in transplanted versus resident wild stocks presented here verify that the genetic differences among populations involve the production parameters. Hatchery produced juveniles from various populations outplanted at different sites showed different mean growth rates depending on parent stock. These observations suggest there are adaptations to local conditions and underscore the need for careful selection by the mariculturist of both site and source of seed stock.