TMAP Mosselbanken (WOT-04-009-035.01)

Mussel beds in various developmental stages are regarded as an important part of the Wadden Sea ecosystem. Within Natura 2000, mussel beds are considered to be characteristic elements of the structure and function of habitat type 1140 (mudflats and sand flats). A natural development and distribution of mussel beds is also an important goal in the Trilateral Wadden Sea Plan.

 

After the disappearance of the littoral mussel beds in the 1990s, it was doubted whether mussel beds can continue to exist for several years. The present project comprises the mapping of a number of individual mussel beds to document their current location and size and the changes in these parameters over the years. In addition to these basic assessments, data is collected on age, the coverage of mussels and oysters within the bed, the size and weight of the mussels and oysters, and the presence of other organisms.

 

The development of stable mussel beds is important for the natural value of the Wadden Sea. Therefore, it is important to obtain knowledge about characteristics of mussel beds that determine their stability. In addition, in recent decades there have been developments that may affect the natural development of mussel beds such as the introduction of the Pacific oyster, subsidence caused by gas extraction and sea level rise. It is not well known if and how these new developments affect the stability of mussel beds. The aim of the project is to obtain detailed information on the condition, development and stability of selected mussel beds in the Wadden Sea.