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Mar Menor scientists discover safe haven for giant mussels
The 300-hectare area of the Mar Menor boasts an impressive 70% survival rate for the endangered species
A team of researchers from the universities of Murcia and Alicante has pinpointed a 300-hectare area of the Mar Menor where the endangered giant mussel has the highest chance of survival. This breakthrough is a crucial step towards reintroducing the species, which has faced numerous threats over the years and is vital to the survival of Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon.
The giant mussel, also known as Pinna nobilis, has struggled to survive in the Mar Menor due to various hazards. A parasite has killed over 90% of the Mediterranean population, and processes of anoxia, or lack of oxygen, have further threatened the species.
More recently, 23 baby mussels were plundered from the sea bed in the Encañizada area, and the culprits have yet to be caught.
Despite these challenges, researchers now believe they have identified a safe zone where the mollusc can thrive.
Led by Pilar Martínez from the University of Alicante, the research team analysed 18 factors, including salinity, water temperature and dissolved oxygen concentration, to determine the safest areas for the species. The resulting 307-hectare zone, which accounts for 2.28% of the lagoon, is located on the eastern coast, south of the Estacio channel and surrounding the Barón and Perdiguera islands.
The plan is to release several specimens that are currently being bred in captivity.
According to Emilio Cortés, technical director of the University of Murcia Aquarium, the designated area has a survival rate of around 70% for the giant mussel.
While the discovery is promising, the researchers acknowledge that the situation is complex.
"The areas that are ideal for adults are not necessarily suitable for young mussels," Cortés explained.
As a result, a huge portion of the lagoon has been ruled out due to concerns about salinity drops and the potential return of the Haplosporidium parasite.
However, the reintroduction of the giant mussel is still a distant goal. Before attempting to reintroduce the species, the researchers aim to close the reproductive cycle in captivity, which has been a challenge so far.
"Starting next year, we will focus all our efforts on closing that cycle," Cortés concluded.
Image: Miteco
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