Opening from On This Site - Native Long Island

Blue mussels and ribbed mussels

Elders distinguished food gathering from caring for the shore. Blue mussels were preferred for eating, while ribbed or “bank” mussels were often left because they held the shore together. Shells from both were used as jewelry. Elders distinguished food gathering from caring for the shore. Blue mussels were preferred for eating, while ribbed or “bank” mussels were often left because they held the shore...