The Ultimate Culinary Adventure in Quang Tri: A Taste Sensation Like No Other

The green mussel, known by its scientific name Perna viridis, is a bivalve mollusk species widely distributed across global seas and oceans. This species is predominantly found along the coastal regions of the Asia-Pacific and New Zealand. In Vietnam, green mussels are commonly discovered in the central coastal areas, with the highest concentration found in the province of Quang Tri.

The green mussel, or Perna viridis, resembles a clam in shape but is larger in length. True to its name, the mussel typically sports a greenish-blue or green hue, and as it matures, its shell turns black or dark brown. The inner shell of the green mussel is iridescent and alluring, boasting a white, shiny appearance.

According to local fishermen in Quang Tri, green mussels are present year-round, but from early July to November, their numbers peak as they gather on sunken ships to reproduce.

Green mussels often form clusters and firmly attach themselves to rocky outcrops or debris from shipwrecks. To harvest this seafood delicacy, fishermen wait for low tide before approaching the sunken vessels. They then use sharp knives to carefully pry the mussels off the surfaces to which they are attached. As shared by an experienced diver, Mr. Chinh, divers gear up with goggles, knives, and gloves as early as 5 am and row their boats about 200 meters from the shore to search for mussels clinging to the submerged rocky outcrops. After approximately three hours of diving, a diver can harvest around 40 kilograms of green mussels, which are then cleaned and sold to traders or brought to the market.

Mr. Chinh also shared that the green mussel harvesting season only lasts a few months, and strong winds or rough seas can make the task challenging. Divers often need to wear specialized diving suits to stay warm during their prolonged periods in the water.

In the past, green mussels were primarily prepared as a simple local dish, but they have now gained recognition as a renowned specialty. Compared to other seafood like clams or scallops, green mussels fetch a higher price, selling for approximately 100,000 VND per kilogram for those with shells and double that price without shells, as offered by seafood shops and online marketplaces.