Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)
Zebra Mussels
The barnacle-like zebra mussel poses a multibillion-dollar threat to North America’s industrial, agricultural and municipal water supplies, and it could become a costly nuisance for freshwater shipping, boating, fishing, and claming as well. First found in 1988 in the Great Lakes, this invader could become more widespread than the German carp and cause far more economic damage than the Mediterranean fruit fly.
Public assistance in reporting zebra mussel sightings at new locations is essential to help prevent its spread to other lakes and rivers!
General Characteristics
- Zebra mussels look like small clams with a yellowish or brownish “D”-shaped shell, usually with dark and light-colored stripes (hence the name “zebra”)
- They can be up to two inches long, but most are under one inch. Zebra mussels usually grow in clusters containing numerous individuals and are generally found in shallow (6-30 feet), algae-rich water
- Zebra mussels are the only freshwater mollusc that can firmly attach itself to solid objects – submerged rocks, dock pilings, boat hulls, water intake pipes, etc.
What You Can Do
- Learn to identify zebra mussels
- Inspect and remove aquatic plants and animals from boat, motor, and trailer
- Drain lake or river water from livewell and bilge before leaving access
- Dispose of unwanted live bait and study specimens in the trash
- Never dump live fish or other animals from one body of water into another
- Report new sightings - record exact location; store specimens in rubbing alcohol; if in Minnesota, call the MN Department of Natural Resources Invasive Species Program in St. Paul, 1-888-MINNDNR, or Doug Jensen of Minnesota Sea Grant.
Know the rules!
Specimens are needed to confirm sightings, but some jurisdictions prohibit or discourage possession and transport of zebra mussels and other invasive aquatic plants and animals. Contact your local natural resource management agency for instructions. Unauthorized introduction of plants or fish into the wild is illegal. Protect your property and our waters.
Doug Jensen
