Mediterranean Mussels  Mytilus galloprovincialis, Modiolus barbatus

A different species than the Atlantic mussel they are found along the southern coast of France.  The are Modiolus barbatus is a heavily bearded variety.

These mussels are larger than the Atlantic mussel and darker in color with a shade of deep orange to red.

With a fleshier and coarser flavor, with a hint of iodine in France they are often eaten raw with a splash of vinegar.