The pseudofeces and feces ejected by the mussels probably also helps build up the sediment that is trapped between the Spartina stems, allowing the area to keep up with moderately rising sea levels.  The mussels often attach to the Spartina below the surface.Allen Aigen
    On Thursday, December 30, 2021, 11:51:03 AM EST, Harry Lee <[log in to unmask]> wrote:  
 
  The role of Geukensia demissa in the structure SE US saltmarshes was mentioned in Lee (2009: 16, species 11): "An infaunal species typically attaching to hard objects buried in the muck of the estuarine Spartina community, of which it is an important member."
 
 The Ribbed Mussel's special combination of epifaunal and infaunal habits provides a potent anchor for the root system of cordgrass and other flora in the habitat.
 
 Harry
 
 
 On 12/28/2021 7:09 PM, David Kirsh wrote:
  
 Dear Listers,

I was alerted to this information by a news item on public radio. Ribbed mussels play a leading role in the integrity of salt marshes and feral swine are the nemesis. 

But I hadn’t heard about the wider threat of feral swine described in the accompanying video.

David Kirsh
Durham, NC

https://www.savannahnow.com/story/news/2021/12/07/wild-hogs-mussels-coasts-climate-change/8881734002/
 
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