Blue mussels appear all along the Norwegian coast and fulfill many important roles in the ecosystem. They increase water quality through filter feeding and provide food and shelter to other organisms. Additionally, blue mussel farming belongs to the most sustainable food productions of animal proteins. Even more concerning is their decline along the Norwegian coast. During this session I will present observed distribution patterns of blue mussels and possible causes behind the decline. In a second step, I will present how this can motivate teachers to go out into the field with their school classes and contribute to science by collecting data. The end of the session will be used to discuss which factors are important for teachers to contribute in a blue mussel citizen science project that we plan to establish.
Lecture combined with input session about teaching opportunities
