Stratification and mixing in the Limfjorden in relation to mussel culture

Stratification is usually detrimental to mussel growth, as it limits access of mussels to food in the upper water layers. However, if mussels are capable of depleting the whole water column under fully mixed conditions, brief periods of stratification could theoretically act as a temporary refuge for phytoplankton, allowing the population to recover. The ultimate effect of this hydrodynamic switching of the system needs further assessment.