Use this interactive to illustrate the key similarities and differences between how wild and farmed green-lipped mussels live. Place each label where you think it belongs. This activity can be done individually, in pairs or as a whole class.
Similarities and differences: wild and farmed green-lipped mussels – Venn diagram
Wild mussels only
Farmed mussels only
Both wild and farmed mussels
Unused items
- Spat may move from site to site
- Larvae settle onto seaweed
- Can contain pea crab parasites
- Grow up to 24 cm long
- Live on ropes in the water
- Endemic to New Zealand
- Mature females have orange flesh
- May live on rocks and other mussels
- Seeded onto ropes using ‘mussock’
- Release eggs or sperm into the water
- Can live for many years
- Harvested after 18 months’ growth
- Previously fished by dredging
- Can accumulate toxins
- Harvested when about 10 cm long
- Larvae are free-swimming
- Some spat grown in hatcheries
- Feed on phytoplankton
- Filter feeders
Although they arise from the same wild populations, there are some key differences between how wild and farmed mussels live during the adult phase of their life cycle. Exploring those similarities and differences can provide students with a framework for developing their knowledge of mussel biology and aquaculture.
Place the labels where you think they belong. You can move the labels from one place to another, if you change your mind. Note: if the label has not changed to blue, check it is fully within the Venn diagram part. When you are ready, click the Check answers button to check your ideas, then click the Reset incorrect button to try again.
Use the Download exercise button for a PDF of the diagram and labels.
See the Similarities and differences: wild and farmed green-lipped mussels activity for additional support in using this interactive.
