1. Mussels
By: Christian Amico

2. Scientific Classification
Mussels belong in the Bivalvia of the Molluscs family.
Marine Mussels are known as Pteriomorpha, and freshwater mussels are called Palaeoheterodonta.

3. Habitat
Mussels live on the rocky shores intertidal zone. They attach themselves to rocks or structure with their strong byssal threads.
Freshwater mussel species live in ponds, lakes, rivers, creeks, or canals.
Both Marine and saltwater mussels are filter feeders, they feed on plankton.
Marine Mussels are usually found close together in groups on wave washed rocks

4. Reproduction
Marine freshwater mussels both have separate reproduction meaning they reproduce sexually.
It takes about three weeks to six months, before settling on the ocean bottom as a young mussel.

5. Anatomy of a mussel
The shell of a mussel is made up of three different layers.
Mussels have a organ like most bivalves which is called a foot. Freshwater mussels have a larger foot then marine mussels.

6. PREDATORS
Predators of marine mussels are humans, starfish, seabirds, and fish.
Freshwater mussel predators are eaten by otters, raccoons, ducks, or geese.

7. PICTURES

8. THE ANATOMY