Mussel Culture Studies in Puget Sound, Washington1

The application of Spanish mussel culture techniques to Puget Sound is a relatively new concept and is still in an experimental stage. A study is being conducted to determine the availability of natural Mytilus edulis seed in Puget Sound, the suitability of several types of setting substrate, and the length of time required for the mussel to grow to market size. Two areas in Washington, Clam Bay and Seabeck Bay, were examined for mussel setting in 1974. Clam Bay proved to be unsatisfactory. Seabeck Bay provided positive results: mussel spatfalls occurred twice, once in June and once in September. Synclove rope was found to be superior to Manila rope and oyster strings.