Mejillón

Mejillón is the Spanish word for mussel. Mussels are bivalve mollusks belonging to the class Bivalvia and the order Mytilida. They are characterized by their elongated, asymmetrical shells, which are typically dark blue or black. Mussels are found in marine, brackish, and freshwater environments worldwide, often attaching themselves to submerged surfaces using byssal threads, commonly referred to as a "beard."

There are many species of mussels, with some of the most commonly consumed and cultivated being the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) and the green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus). Mussels are filter feeders, drawing water into their shells to extract plankton and other organic matter. This filtering process contributes to water clarity in their ecosystems.

In culinary contexts, "mejillón" refers to mussels prepared as food. They are a popular seafood item in many cultures, especially in Spain and other Mediterranean countries. Mejillones can be prepared in numerous ways, including steamed, fried, grilled, or incorporated into stews and paellas. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Cultivation of mussels, known as mussel farming, is a significant aquaculture practice, providing a sustainable and relatively environmentally friendly source of seafood.