Nearly
100 Years of Mussel Conservation
The
Higgins' eye pearlymussel (Lampsilis higginsi)
was designated a federally endangered
species in 1976. It is found in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri,
and Wisconsin. The mussel is native to the Mississippi River in mud-gravel
bottoms and swift current. The invasion of the zebra mussel, an aquatic
nuisance species, and degraded habitat threaten the Higgins' eye
pearlymussel and other native mussel species.
The
Genoa National Fish Hatchery, WI is partnering with the
La Crosse Fishery Resources Office, WI, Wisconsin
DNR and Minnesota DNR to propagate the endangered Higgins' eye
pearlymussel. Divers
collect fertile adult females from the St. Croix River and remove
the larvae or glochidia. The glochidia are allowed to attach to attach
to host fish gills, which is a required part of the reproductive process
for the mussels. The infected fish are released into natural mussel
areas. Juvenile mussels
are collected for natural areas, held in the hatchery, and later released
into zebra mussel-free areas.
Field Offices Involved
with Higgins' Eye Pearlymussel Recovery
Genoa
National Fish Hatchery, WI | La
Crosse Fishery Resources Office, WI
Link to More Information