Soolaveepärl

Soolaveepärl, scientific name Mytilus edulis, is a common species of saltwater mussel. It is a bivalve mollusc that lives in marine environments. Soolaveepärl is found along the coastlines of the North Atlantic Ocean, including the shores of Europe and North America. These mussels are typically found in intertidal zones, attached to rocks, pilings, and other hard surfaces, forming dense beds.

The shell of the soolaveepärl is typically dark blue or black, often with a rough texture. They are known for their ability to filter feed, drawing water into their shells to extract plankton and other organic particles. This filtration process plays a significant role in maintaining water quality in coastal ecosystems. Soolaveepärl are an important part of the marine food web, serving as a food source for various predators, including seabirds, fish, and larger invertebrates. They are also cultivated commercially for human consumption, valued for their taste and nutritional content. The species has a wide distribution and is considered ecologically significant in many coastal habitats.