Evaluation of the Danish mussel fishery: suggestions for an ecosystem management approach |
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Authors: | Per Dolmer Rikke Frandsen |
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Institution: | (1) Danish Institute for Fisheries Research, Charlottenlund Castle, 2920 Charlottenlund, Denmark, |
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Abstract: | In Limfjorden, Denmark, an extensive mussel fishery exploits the wild stocks of Mytilus edulis with annual landings of 80,000–100,000 t of mussels. During the last 10 years the impact of mussel dredging on the ecosystem
has been studied, including the effect of resuspension of sediment and nutrients and the impoverishment of in- and epi-fauna
assemblages. Furthermore, dredging changes the physical structure and complexity of the seabed which affects mussel growth
and interactions among zoobenthic species. The blue mussel constitutes the dominant fraction of the zoobenthic suspension
feeders, and is important for the transport of material and energy from the pelagic to benthic systems and the control of
phytoplankton biomass. In order to evaluate the impact on clearance capacity of a reduction in mussel densities due to mussel
dredging, mussel filtration activity measured in situ has been related to the mixing of the water column and the amount of
near-bed phytoplankton. Fishery practice for mussel dredging in Limfjorden is discussed in relation to its known impact on
the ecosystem and the ecological role of the mussels, and modifications towards an ecosystem management approach and a more
sustainable fishery are suggested. The suggested modifications include: a fishery practice where the mussel beds are thinned
out when the mussels have attained good quality, and a transplantation practice of mussels from areas with a high mortality
to areas with a high growth rate. Both practices intensify the production in a certain area, leaving other areas open for
alternative production or for permanent closure for the benefit of the benthic flora and fauna. In addition, other shellfish
species represent interesting new resources for fishing or aquaculture. Habitat restoration, such as the relaying of mussel
shells from the mussel industry, is another important management tool that should be included in an ecosystem management approach
of the mussel fishery.
Electronic Publication |
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Keywords: | Mytulis edulis Mussels Dredging Ecosystem Fishery practice |
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