Holding Strength of Quagga and Zebra Mussels on Substrate by Use of Byssal Threads

Title

Holding Strength of Quagga and Zebra Mussels on Substrate by Use of Byssal Threads

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Keywords

Quagga Mussel, Zebra Mussel, Byssal Thread, Vibration

Abstract

Quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis) and zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are both rapidly growing species among many regions on the planet and have recently invaded the eastern and western coast and the inland lakes and rivers of the United States (Matthews et al. 2014, 23 42). These mussels go through an annual process of reproduction each year that produces millions of larval veligers . This early form of mussels is planktonic and is capable of passing through narrow water filtration facilities. (Grutters et al. 2012, 121). Once they settle and reach their adult age, they begin attaching to the nearest substrates which include underwater sediment and boats. Unfortunately, for some boats, the build up of mussels on the boat’s hull can lead to cooling systems clogging up and malfunctioning, thus rendering them useless. To combat this, some manufacturers have designed boats with copper and nickel alloy bases as studies have shown that mussels do not favor these types of surfaces. However, boats with these metals are very expensive for the average person to buy (Dormon et al. 1996, 276 283). One major solution is focusing on the problem at the source by using deterrents where they travel downstream. If this can prove successful, then mussel invasion should see an overall decrease on an annual basis (Hagenau et al. 2011, 339 347).

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Document Type

Video

Publication Date

2021

Language

English

College

Life Sciences

Department

Biology

University Standing at Time of Publication

Senior

Holding Strength of Quagga and Zebra Mussels on Substrate by Use of Byssal Threads

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