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Zebra Mussel Distribution in North America |
What this map layer shows:
Locations where the zebra mussel, an invasive species of mollusk, has been found in fresh waters.
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Background Information |
Sample Map
Non-native plants, animals, and microbes that have been intentionally
or unintentionally introduced into an environment may cause environmental
or economic harm or be a threat to human health. When these introduced
species do not have enough natural enemies to limit their reproduction
and spread they can rapidly expand their range and become invasive
species. The spread of invasive species is one of the most serious ecological
problems facing our Nation in the 21st century. Aquatic invaders
like the zebra mussel are transforming our wetlands and inland waters.
They threaten native communities and alter native habitats; they foul
beaches, create boating and navigational hazards, and cause millions
of dollars of damage to municipal and private facilities relying on
fresh water. The zebra mussel has been steadily invading America's rivers
and lakes since it was first introduced in Lake St. Clair in 1988. Scientists
at the U.S. Geological
Survey are documenting the zebra mussel's
geographic distribution and studying its behavior and biology. Documenting
the geographic distribution of the zebra mussel is just one step toward
developing strategies to contain or control its spread.
The Zebra Mussel Distribution in North America
map layer features the locations of confirmed zebra
mussel sightings from 1988 to January 2008. Reports
of sightings came from a variety of Federal, State,
and municipal agencies, public utilities, universities,
engineering firms, and private consultants. Additional
information for each sighting includes the year
the sighting occurred and a textual description
of where the mussel was found (for example, Hudson
River at buoy 25, below West Point). Additional
information on zebra mussels is available from
the USGS Nonindigenous
Aquatic Species Site, Zebra
Mussel page, and
from the USGS Biological
Resources Discipline Invasive Species Program.
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