Aquatic Invasive Species: The Study of the Ecological and Economic Impacts of Zebra Mussels

Abstract

Zebra mussels have a D-formed, striped shell made out of two pivoted valves joined by a tendon. The shells regularly have stripes that vary between yellow and brownish colors and range in length from a quarter to a half inch, depending on age. Typically, adults are about the size of a fingernail. Zebra mussels are an aquatic invasive species that originated in eastern Europe. The zebra mussel was first found in quite a while of southeast Russia and is now found throughout the Black and Caspian Seas. Zebra mussels get their common names from the zebra-like patterns on their shells. These mussels are small and typically grow to the size of fingernails. These mussels are prolific breeders that can stick to both hard and delicate surfaces in freshwater. Invasions have caused significant harm to the ecosystems where zebra mussels have established themselves. These organisms significantly raise the support costs for water treatment and power plants by stopping up water consumption structures (like lines and screens). Because mussels may heavily encrustate beaches, buoys, boat hulls, anchors, and docks, they negatively impact recreational activities on lakes and rivers.