Zebra mussel : invasive species

Abstract

"Reasons for Invasive Status: Originally from the seas of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, this species was accidentally brought over by cargo ships coming into the Great Lakes from the Black Sea. Zebra Mussels can spread so quickly because not only do they reproduce in huge numbers, but they can also survive multiple days out of water, allowing them to be transported on boats and other equipment. It is unclear how to stop Zebra Mussels from speading once they arrive in an ecosystem. Zebra Mussels were found in Missouri in 1991 in the Mississippi River. By 1999 they spread to the Missouri River near Sioux City, Iowa. They have also been found in the lower Meramec River and the Osage River. They are spreading throughout lakes in Missouri too, and have been reported in the Lake of the Ozarks and Bull Shoals Lake. They cause problems for ecosystems primarily by eating the same food that native fish need to grow, making fish population growth more difficult. Zebra Mussels also cause problems for humans by damaging boat parts and clogging pipes used for water supply. Their sharp shells can litter swimming areas, cutting the feet of beach-goers."--Page 1-2.