MUSSEL BEDS OF SCOTLAND 2/ 



enterprise resolved to attempt the commencement 

 of a new bed in this locaHty, although they were 

 aware that shifting sands did exist. Accordingly, 

 small mussels growing upon the exposed rocks in 

 the vicinity of Nairn were collected, and on the 

 1 6th April 1889 were transferred to E'e. 



It was found that in a few days they had 

 bound themselves into clusters, and were forming 

 a tolerably firm mass on the top of the loose sand. 

 Very little fresh water enters the sea in the 

 neighbourhood, but the effect of transplanting was 

 such that in eleven months it was declared that 

 the once small and stunted mussels were of the 

 size most suitable for bait, i.e. two to a hook. 

 On 23rd January 1891, therefore, a large number 

 were lifted and carried to the pier-head at Nairn, 

 where they were sold for the large price of 2s. 4d. 

 per quarter cran basket 



Subsequently five tons of mussel seed were ob- 

 tained, through the kindness of Mr. Hogarth, lessee 

 of the Findhorn beds, and planted in the same 

 manner as before. These mussels also grew admir- 

 ably ; and early in the summer of 1893, having 

 been transplanted for one year, they spawned. 

 A very decided hope, therefore, may be entertained 

 that a permanent bed has been established. 



