Taranto mussel farmers seek temporary derogation for Mar Piccolo

Mussel farming associations and unions in Taranto are seeking a temporary derogation to the 2022 ordinance that prohibits the re-immersion of non-native mussels in the Mar Piccolo basin. The request follows a significant loss of native mussel seeds caused by high summer temperatures, a situation industry leaders warn could lead to the permanent collapse of the sector if production remains halted for a full year.

Local authorities, including Councilor Cosa, have held technical discussions with scientific and control bodies such as ASL, ARPA, and CNR. These organizations have reportedly assured the compatibility of the measure, provided that imports are limited to the same species as the native Mytilus galloprovincialis and sourced from the Mediterranean. A draft ordinance is being considered with a temporary validity lasting until February 28, 2027.

However, the proposal has met with political resistance. Local councilor Mirko Di Bello has called for further scientific guarantees, expressing concerns regarding the potential impact on the quality and identity of the local production. He emphasized the importance of protecting the tradition and the Slow Food Presidium status associated with the Taranto black mussel.