Mytilus Galloprovincialis(Lmk) (Bivalvia, Mollusca): The Taxonomic Status of the Mediterranean Mussel

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Abstract
Since the last major review of the taxonomic status of the Mediterranean mussel in 1984, much new data have been published, both in areas previously covered, and also in new disciplines. In this paper new data regarding the systematic status of M. galloprovincialis are reviewed. These and previously reported data are viewed in light of four species concepts to elucidate a) the taxonomic status of M. galloprovincialis according to each concept, and b) difficulties associated with each concept as applied to the genus Mytilus. Despite problems in the application of each concept, and the lack of a universally accepted species concept, M. galloprovincialis is best viewed as an incipient species i.e. as a subspecies. It is proposed that the trinomial (the subspecies Mytilus edulis galloprovincialis) be employed in future.