Nesting Mussel

Musculus impactus

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

The shell is oval shaped and swollen with sculpture dividing the shell into three regions, two with strong ribs separated by one with no ribs. hen found in groups the byssal threads can intertwine to form a dense mat of threads which completely hide the animal

Size

Typical shell-length 30 mm

Habitat

Lives subtidally and offshore amongst rocks and seaweed

Distribution

Occurs in southeastern and southwestern Australia (QLD, NSW, TAS, VIC, SA and WA); also New Zealand

Gallery

Select any photo or video to view it large with its details and credits.

Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (2)

Grove, S.J. (2018). A Guide to the Seashells and other Marine Molluscs of Tasmania web-site (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
The Marine Life Database (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Nesting Mussel
Scientific name: Musculus impactus (Hermann, 1782)
Family: Mytilidae
Category: Sea Life › Shellfish
Origin: Native
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Information Website

Seen one? Snapped one?

Sightings and photos help keep this record growing.

Tell Us About It

Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.