Survey reveals Scotland's mussel production reached record levels in 2024

In 2024, 11,690 tonnes of common mussel were produced for the table market, marking the highest level of common mussel production recorded in Scotland, according to data recently published by the Scottish Government.

Common mussel and Pacific oyster remain the main species produced in terms of value and tonnage, as highlighted in the government's shellfish farm production survey for the year 2024. During that year, approximately 2.4 million Pacific oyster shells were produced for the table market.

Common mussel production increased by 13 per cent during 2024. Pacific oyster production decreased by 38 per cent, with a main producer in the Highland region ceasing production in 2024.

There was a 53 per cent increase in the production of native oyster from 111,000 to 170,000 shells in 2024. King scallop production meanwhile decreased by four per cent, from 24,000 to 23,000 shells, since 2023.

Queen scallop production cannot be reported due to low levels of production and producers, the survey revealed.

The number of common mussel producing sites with sufficient spat settlement for production purposes increased by 80 per cent from 54 to 97 in 2024.

The Scottish shellfish farming sector is estimated to be worth approximately £14 million (US$19 million) at first sale value, a decrease of one per cent from the 2023 value.

For shellfish health purposes, 120 out of 283 sites were inspected during 2024 as part of a risk-based surveillance programme. Further details can be found here.

The government said movement restrictions remain in place for the presence of the oyster disease Bonamia ostreae at Loch Sunart and the Dornoch Firth in Highland region, West Loch Tarbert and Lynn of Lorne, Loch Creran and Loch Etive in Strathclyde region.