Common Name:
Zebra mussels
Scientific Name:
Dreissena polymorpha
Unique Qualities:
Zebra mussels are most recognizable by their pattern of dark and light banding on their shells. They are native to the Black sea but have made their way into the North America and Canada ecosystems.
Can be Seen:
Their native range is the Black, Caspian and Azov seas. Since the 1700s they can be seen in most of Western Europe, the U.K. and North America.
Likes to Hang Out:
Zebra mussels like to hang out wherever there is freshwater, mainly lakes and estuaries. They are found in the Great Lakes and all major river drainages east of the Rocky Mountains.
Likes to Eat:
Zebra mussels mainly eat algae. Since there is never any shortage of algae, zebra mussels will never have to worry about starvation. The calcium in algae can also be used for repairing shell damage.
Status:
Zebra mussels are an invasive species and their rapid population growth is a concern to scientists. Scientists say the presence of zebra mussels is limiting the amount of native freshwater mussels to survive. Freshwater mussels are important in indicating the health of an ecosystem.
