Galicia is one of the key sources of shellfish in Europe and the second-largest producer of mussels globally, after China. But climate change and pollution are taking a toll on shellfish numbers. Some stocks are falling by as much as 90% in some years.
Spanish fishers in Galicia are concerned. The latest figures suggest a catastrophic decline in cockles, clams and mussels. In 2023, the production of cockles fell by 80% compared to the year before. Some types of clams also took a hit.
Last year, mussel production considerably dipped, raising concerns among fishers. Numerous people are blaming the brutal climate crisis, highlighting that the recent torrential rains are reducing the salinity of the rías.
The other factor behind the drop in production of shellfish is pollution, said Marta Martin-Borregon, responsible for oceans at Greenpeace, Spain. There are plans to reopen the nearby Tuoro-Pino copper mine, too. It could lead to more pollution.
