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Vital freshwater mussels are threatened, DNR says
The agency says zebra mussels, pollution and dams are driving declines, and 5 species are already presumed extirpated.
- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reports that 33 of the 51 freshwater mussel species found in the state are in decline, with many at risk across North America.
- Invasive zebra mussels compete with native species for space and resources, while dams and habitat degradation from pollution, urbanization, and poor land use practices further threaten populations.
- These organisms act as filter feeders, cleaning water and providing shelter for fish while functioning like a 'freshwater coral reef' within the ecosystem, recycling nutrients throughout the food web.
- Five Minnesota species are presumed extirpated, with two more 'in imminent danger' of extirpation; the DNR monitors populations and propagates species for reintroduction where historical recovery is unlikely.
- Holcomb advises Minnesotans to prevent invasive spread by cleaning and draining boats before leaving lake access, and reducing herbicides, pesticides, and excess fertilizers in yards to improve water quality downstream.
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13 Articles
Post Bulletin+12 Reposted by 12 other sources
Vital freshwater mussels are threatened, DNR says
More than half of the species in Minnesota are at least 'of special concern.'
·Cherokee County, United States
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Total News Sources13
Leaning Left0Leaning Right4Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution64% Center
Bias Distribution
- 64% of the sources are Center
64% Center
C 64%
R 36%
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