The Canary Islands’ Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food Sovereignty has approved the collection of Canary mussels (Perna perna) in Fuerteventura until 30 November 2026. This decision follows a request from the Gran Tarajal Fishermen’s Guild, allowing the revival of mussel harvesting on the island after 22 years of prohibition.
This measure responds to demands from Fuerteventura’s artisanal fishing sector, which has reported a recovery in mussel populations following two decades of protection.
Alongside this, the government has assigned the public company TRAGSATEC to conduct a scientific study to assess the current state of the mussel populations and their recovery potential. This study, expected to be completed by summer 2027, will provide updated information on the species and help determine whether changes to current protection and usage conditions are necessary.
Mussel harvesting is regulated by Decree 134/1986 and further defined by an order from 16 July 2004, which established a fishing ban to aid in the conservation of the species. The recent authorisation allows for controlled extraction while maintaining current protective measures.
The last scientific assessment of Canary mussel populations in Fuerteventura occurred in 2014. Thus, updating this information is deemed essential for future management decisions regarding both conservation and the needs of the fishing industry.
The Government of the Canary Islands aims to balance the protection of the mussel population with traditional fishing activities through regulated, science-based harvesting that ensures long-term sustainability.
For further details, visit Gobierno de Canarias.
