Published online by Cambridge University Press: 05 December 2011
1. A general survey of the sub-tidal populations of Modiolus modiolus (L.) to a depth of 18 or 21 m was carried out in five Shetland voes, with particular emphasis in Sullom Voe. Estimations of density distribution and growth rate were made.
2. Commencing in June 1976 samples were collected at three-monthly intervals from two sites in Sullom Voe, and from one site in Cat Firth in 1977, to investigate seasonal variations in flesh and biochemical content. The data indicate that Shetland Modiolus are generally similar in their biology to those from Scottish lochs, and are liable to considerable variation between and within populations, with groups responding to environmental variations of very local extent.
3. A list of animals found associated with Modiolus and their byssus complexes is given. As no effort was made to collect the fauna systematically or quantitatively, the list is not comprehensive.