Evaluation of the Toxicity of BioBullets and BioBullet Degradation Products to Zebra (Dreissena polymorpha) and Unionid Mussels in Standardized Bioassay Tests

There is a lack of chemical, physical, and biological tools to control zebra mussel populations in the natural environment and in piping systems of commercial water users. If zebra mussels are not controlled, numerous unionid mussel species face extinction and water users will face economic hardships.

Determine the toxicity of BioBullets to unionid and zebra mussels in standardized bioassays.  Results from this research will provide managers with information to make decisions on the utility of using BioBullets as a control tool to reduce or eliminate zebra mussels from aquatic habitats.

One important milestone includes a study that will be conducted in 2007. Future research will depend on the results of the current study.

	Contact: Jeff Rach Research Fishery Biologist UMESC 2630 Fanta Reed RD La Crosse, Wi (608) 781-6322 jrach@usgs.gov Website: http://www.umesc.usgs.gov/reports_publications/fact_sheets/invasives_strategy.html