On our coasts and markets, the molluscs They play a central role in both marine biodiversity and the cultural and culinary life of many regions. They are creatures that can go unnoticed on the seabed or make unexpected headlines, often surprising us with astonishing behaviors or unique adaptations. In recent months, the news surrounding mollusks has revolved around rare sightings, environmental challenges that threaten their breeding and production, and popular festivals that highlight their value as a local product.
The appearance of singular species in areas where they are not usually seen, it has aroused the curiosity and astonishment of neighbors and vacationers, while producers, scientists and consumers rediscover the complexity—and vulnerability—of these marine animals.
Extraordinary species and surprising sightings
Recently, the beach of Sa RÃ pita, in Mallorca, became the scene of an unusual discovery: a sea hare (Aplysia punctata), mollusk that is rarely seen so close to the shore, surprised bathers and experts alike. With its elongated body, gelatinous texture and two lobes reminiscent of earsThis creature can easily pass for a floating plastic bag, which speaks volumes about the lack of knowledge that still exists about local marine fauna. You might also be interested in learning about the lives of other mollusks like this one. blotched mollusk.
Its presence near the coast is, according to specialists, rare but not impossibleFactors such as changes in water temperature, unusual currents, or abundant phytoplankton can attract these mollusks from their usual habitats in underwater meadows to shallow waters. Despite its unusual appearance, the sea hare does not pose any danger to people and, in fact, contributes to the health of marine ecosystems by managing algae populations.
Similar phenomena have occurred with such spectacular species as the Blue Angel (Glaucus atlanticus), a small mollusk known for its defense system based on accumulating venom from the jellyfish it consumes. This animal, in addition to its silvery-blue coloration that serves as camouflage, is capable of injecting this venom into potential predators. It is striking that it is a hermaphroditic species and that its young develop protected by the same jellyfish that feed their parents.
The mollusk as an economic, cultural and gastronomic engine
The molluscs They not only attract the attention of biologists and swimmers, but are also authentic hallmarks of the gastronomic culture of many localities. Events such as the traditional Clòtxina Festival in Valencia or the popular Chipi Chipi Fair In La Guardia, thousands of people gather to celebrate and highlight these seafood products. Tastings, culinary workshops, and festive activities demonstrate the social and economic importance of species such as the clòtxina, the mussel or the squid. Also, in the breeding of molluscs, other marine resources such as the life cycle of salmon.
The Valencian clòtxina, for example, is cultivated mainly in the port of Valencia and is considered by many to be superior to the common mussel, both for its flavor and its smaller size. The Mercat de Cabanyal celebrated its popular festival once again, bringing the community together around this highly prized mollusk. However, the heat wave and changes in water temperature have forced producers to shorten the harvest season, which poses a challenge to maintaining quality and supply during the months of highest demand.
In the Ebro Delta, another of the key areas for the mussel production, producers have had to deal with a 15% reduction in this year's harvest due to unusually high temperatures. If the water reaches 26 degrees, the mollusks stop feeding, and with sustained temperatures of 28 degrees, significant losses can occur. This situation highlights the vulnerability of aquaculture in the face of climate change and the difficulty of maintaining profitability in increasingly shorter campaigns.
Scientific innovation and challenges in mollusk farming
In the scientific field, the captive breeding of highly intelligent molluscs such as the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) has sparked an intense ethical and regulatory debate in Spain. The company Nueva Pescanova, one of the main players in global aquaculture, has invested in research to achieve the complete closure of the reproductive cycle of this cephalopod in laboratory facilities. The project seeks to combine scientific progress with sustainable production, but faces concerns from animal rights groups and some political parties, who question the ethical viability of raising animals recognized for their ability to feel and learn on farms. You may also be interested in learning more about the serrano fish.
This controversy raises a dilemma that goes beyond simple economic exploitation: Is it possible to guarantee the welfare of such complex animals? In artificial environments? Critics of octopus aquaculture warn of the suffering and stress these mollusks can experience in captivity, while others advocate the opportunity to reduce pressure on wild populations and contribute to food security.
Curiosities and mysteries of mollusks: the case of the "sun slug"
As if that were not enough, among the mollusks we find species as surprising as the Elysia chlorotica, nicknamed the "sun slug" for its ability to photosynthesize. Found in the Atlantic waters of North America, this animal is the only known one that can convert sunlight into energyIt does this by assimilating chloroplasts from the algae it consumes, keeping them functional in its own body for several months. This way, it can survive long periods without feeding, simply by exposing itself to the sun. Furthermore, its intense green color not only allows it to camouflage itself, but also changes as it grows and consumes algae, transforming from brown to bright green. Details such as its hermaphroditic reproduction and the formation of long strings of eggs add even more mystery to this fascinating mollusk.
The variety and rarity of the mollusks that inhabit our seas and rivers underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between exploitation, environmental respect, and scientific advancement. Species that stand out for their uniqueness, ecological interest, or culinary potential contribute to highlighting the challenges and opportunities these animals represent, reminding us how much there is still to learn about them and the ecosystems in which they live.