Dreissena polymorpha

Dreissena polymorpha, commonly known as zebra mussel, is a small freshwater mollusk native to Eastern Europe. Recognizable by its distinctive striped shell, it attaches firmly to surfaces like rocks, boat bottoms, and pipes. Zebra mussels filter large volumes of water to feed on tiny particles, which can alter ecosystems by reducing plankton populations. They are considered invasive in many regions, as they spread rapidly and clog water intake systems, affecting industry, infrastructure, and native aquatic life. Despite their small size, their ecological and economic impacts are significant.