New Zealand Green Mussel

Marine species not currently found in Australia.

New Zealand green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) could outcompete Australian blue mussels and is thought to have similar invasive potential to other Perna mussel species. It could seriously affect mussel industries.  This mussel is listed as an Australian Priority Marine Pest.

Exotic species under the Fisheries Management Act 2007. It may not be deposited, released or allowed to escape into any waters in South Australia without specific authorisation.

What to look for:

• dark brown to bright green shell
• thin reddish brown coloured rays
• smooth shell
• evenly spaced growth lines
• shell thin at edges, thickening towards pointed end
• straight proportionally long hinge line
• grows up to 24 cm.