The Zebra Mussel
- Scientific Name – Dreissena Polymorpha
- Taxonomic Group – Mollusks-Bivalves
- Present in 5/5 Lakes, IL, IN, MN, NY, OH, PA, VT, WI, QUE, TX, CA, MA
- Toxic/Dangerous to Humans or Environment – Positive
Mussels feed on zooplankton, which is integral to regulating physical and chemical imbalances in the water. Excessive Microcystis growth could be related to a lower nitrogen:phosphorus ratio in environments with zebra mussels relative to those without (Bykova et al. 2006). Nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen are essential for algae growth.
The increase of the toxic cyanobacteria, Microcystis aeruginosa, caused by Dreissena polymorpha may negatively impact food webs and public health.
- Socio-Economic Impacts – Positive
colonization of water supply pipes of hydroelectric and nuclear power plants, public water supply plants, and industrial facilities. When inhabiting pipes, they tend to constrict water flow, thereby reducing the intake in heat exchangers, condensers, fire-fighting equipment, and air conditioning and cooling systems.
