Valencia region confronts climate threats to mussel farms and fruit growers

A study by the Universitat Politècnica de València warns that rising sea temperatures and increased acidification are endangering the clóchina mussel farms of Valencia and Sagunto. The mussel sector, which produced 2,703 tonnes worth over €4.3 million in 2024, could see higher mortality and slower growth, reducing profitability. Researchers suggest advancing the production calendar and culturing mussels at greater depths to mitigate stress.

At the same time, a heatwave in July 2024 recorded temperatures approaching 45 °C across Spain, with the Valencian Community hit hardest. Extreme heat is damaging crops such as almonds and persimmons, delaying orange and lemon harvests, and triggering pest outbreaks. Fruit growers like Aitor Galán have shifted irrigation and pesticide applications to night work to avoid daytime heat, citing a lack of tools for controlling pests such as the cottonet fly.

Both reports highlight how climate‑driven temperature spikes are pressuring traditional Mediterranean aquaculture and agriculture, prompting urgent adaptation measures.