Alien Mussels Muscling In

Zebra Mussels

Alien mussels are muscling their way into our waterways. And like unwelcome guests, once the move in, they're almost impossible to move out!

We're talking about zebra and quagga mussels, natives of Eurasia. Discovered in the Great Lakes during the 80s, they quickly spread throughout the East. Now, Oregon State University scientists say they're ready to invade the Great Plains and Southwest.

So far, these prolific misplaced mussels have caused millions of dollars in damage to marine structures and equipment. They've also caused extensive ecological damage by pushing out other species like clams and native mussels.

While some have spread through adjoining waterways, alien mussels are often spread by hitchhiking from one place to another on watercraft.

Before leaving a lake or river, inspect and clean your clothing, gear, boat, trailer and your pets to eliminate organic material -- including mud that can contain mussel larvae. Remove water from your equipment and clean it with hot water, salt water or vinegar, and never dump unused bait water or bilge water .

Following these guidelines can help prevent the vast ecological damage caused when alien mussels invade.

Script by Stephen Webb

Discovery Links

To learn more about today’s topic, please explore the links below:

• Mussel Invasion
• U.S. Department of Agriculture
• Zebra Mussel Fact Sheet
• Preventing the spread of quagga mussels
• Aquatic Invasive Species of Pennsylvania
• The Origin of the Great Lakes Zebra Mussel