Mussel

Mussels, locally known as “tahong,” are bivalve mollusks characterized by a two-part, hinged shell that protects their soft-bodied invertebrate tissue. In the Philippines, the most widely cultured and recognized species is the green mussel (Perna viridis). Though Modiolus philippinarum and Modiolus metcalfei are among the native species in the coastal areas. In recent years, several literatures have noted the occurrence of another species, Mytella strigata.

The mussel industry is an important component of the Philippine aquaculture sector, providing an affordable source of high-quality protein and contributing to the income and livelihood of fisherfolk in many coastal communities. Mussel farming requires relatively low capital investment and minimal labor, making it an accessible livelihood option for small-scale coastal producers.

The mussel industry is an important component of Philippine aquaculture, providing an affordable source of protein and livelihood for coastal communities. Mussel farming requires relatively low capital and labor, making it accessible to small-scale fisherfolk. Production has fluctuated over the past decade, reaching a peak of 26,302.77 MT in 2018, valued at approximately PHP 515.2 million (PSA, 2025). However, production declined sharply from 23,707.06 MT in 2021 to 10,892.42 MT in 2022, with the decline mostly all production areas, most evidently in Regions IV-A, VI, and VIII.

Mussel production has fluctuated over the past decade, peaking at 26,302.77 MT in 2018, with an average annual growth of only 0.36% from 2014 to 2020. Growth is constrained by the traditional stake culture method, limited suitable growing areas, and dependence on naturally occurring spat from established seedbeds. Shallowing of traditional culture areas, inadequate supply of quality seeds, and concerns over mussel quality and safety further constrain the industry.

In recent years, production has declined sharply, from 23,707.06 MT in 2021 to 10,892.42 MT in 2022 and had persistently low until 2024. It was driven by reduced production in traditional growing areas, particularly in Regions IV-A, VI, and VIII. This contraction is associated with recurring red tide events, mussel die-offs, and increasing competing uses of traditional culture areas.

These challenges highlight the need to expand production into suitable non-traditional areas, improve culture practices and seed supply, strengthen biosecurity and food safety, and promote sustainable and resilient mussel production.