Mussels could play key role in microplastic cleanup

Scientists at England’s Plymouth Marine Laboratory have begun a one-year feasibility study into the capability of mussels to filter microplastics from natural waterways. Mussels are known for their resilience, capable of living in polluted water that other species would not be able to tolerate. As well as being naturally robust, mussels are incredibly efficient. In one day, a single square metre of mussels can filter a whopping 150,000 litres of water.

The research being undertaken is examining this work rate, the aim of which is to maintain the shellfish’s health while maximising the amount of pollution being removed from the water.

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