MUSSEL, FRESHWATER

(Hyridella menziesi).

These bivalve shellfish are found in freshwater lakes, streams, and rivers. They grow to 4 in. in length and are always coated with a thick, greenish-brown horny epidermis. They have an interesting juvenile stage in which the larval shellfish spends its early life attached to the body or fins of a freshwater fish. This is the kakahi of the Maoris, formerly much favoured by them as a special food for young children and the sick.

by Arthur William Baden Powell, Assistant Director, Auckland Institute and Museum.

• MUSSEL, FRESHWATER

Warning

This information was published in 1966 in An Encyclopaedia of New Zealand, edited by A. H. McLintock. It has not been corrected and will not be updated.

Up-to-date information can be found elsewhere in Te Ara.