BioOne.org will be down briefly for maintenance on 17 December 2024 between 18:00-22:00 Pacific Time US. We apologize for any inconvenience.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 December 2008 Adult Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) Avoid Attachment to Mesh Materials
Ashley E. Porter, J. Ellen Marsden
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

Dreissena polymorpha (Zebra Mussel) is capable of attachment to a wide range of natural and man-made materials, but individuals tend to attach to hard, solid substrates. The effects of mesh substrates on Zebra Mussel attachment has not been studied. This study examined the attachment of adult Zebra Mussels to mesh substrates. Zebra Mussels >5 mm shell length were placed on trays constructed of mesh of different hole size and material, and a hard substrate (PVC) control. Their attachment choice was recorded after a 14-d period. The results indicated that Zebra Mussels do not tend to attach directly to mesh, and instead will move towards the closest hard substrate, usually another mussel. There was no significant difference between numbers of mussels attached to different mesh material types and mesh pore sizes. This study furthers our understanding of Zebra Mussel attachment and their preferences when attaching to substrata and has implications for fisheries biologists, aquarists, and others who use nets, mesh, or screens in fresh water.

Ashley E. Porter and J. Ellen Marsden "Adult Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) Avoid Attachment to Mesh Materials," Northeastern Naturalist 15(4), 589-594, (1 December 2008). https://doi.org/10.1656/1092-6194-15.4.589
Published: 1 December 2008
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission
Back to Top