|
Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpa) and Quagga Mussel (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis)
Zebra mussels are small freshwater mollusks named for the striped pattern of their shells.
Quagga mussels resemble the zebra mussel, but are generally rounder in shape with shells that appear asymmetrical when viewed from the front. They both have profound effects on the lakes they invade by disrupting food chains. Voracious filter feeders, they reduce the availability of food for larval and juvenile fishes meant for sport and commercial fisheries. They attach easily to boats, docks and buoys.
For more information, visit the 100th Meridian website and the USDA National Invasive Species Information Center.
|
 |
Quagga Mussel
Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Herod, USFWS |
|
