mussel

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Any of a group of shellfish, some of which are edible, such as the common mussel (Mytilus edulis) which has a blue-black hinged shell and is found in clusters attached to rocks around the North Atlantic and American coasts. Mussels are bivalve molluscs. (Class Bivalvia, phylum Mollusca.)

Freshwater pearl mussels, such as the species Unio margaritiferus, are found in some North American and European rivers. The larvae of the North American freshwater mussel Lampsilis perovalis are parasitic, living on the gills or fins of freshwater bass. The larvae of the British swan mussel (Anodonta cygnea) are also parasitic. Margaritifera margaritifera became a protected species in 1991 having suffered from pollution and from amateur fishers who, unlike professionals, are not able to extract the pearl without killing the mussel itself. The green-lipped mussel, found only off New Zealand, produces an extract that is used in the treatment of arthritis.

Green stands for the country's natural resources. White represents peace, justice, and unity. Blue recalls the sea and the capital Freetown's natural harbour. Effective date: 27 April 1961. >>