zebra mussels

Zebra mussels are small freshwater mollusks originally from Eastern Europe. They have a distinct striped pattern on their shells and can rapidly multiply, attaching to surfaces like boats, pipes, and water intake systems. This high reproductive rate allows them to form dense colonies that can clog pipes, damage infrastructure, and outcompete native aquatic species for food and space. Zebra mussels often spread through ballast water or hitchhiking on boats and equipment, making them a significant invasive species in many North American lakes and rivers. Their presence disrupts ecosystems and causes economic and environmental challenges.