Mussels stranded by drought

Drought leaving some freshwater mussels stranded; Concern reflects growing awareness of animal’s importance. DNR News Release.

Now, mussels’ role in ecosystems is starting to shine as scientists learn more about these animals, Kitchel says. “Mussels are our freshwater filters,” she says. A single mussel can filter a gallon or more of water a day, removing sediment and nutrients that can fuel algae blooms, as well as pesticides and heavy metals like mercury that can build up in fish and wildlife and the people who eat them.

Watch for and help a mussel into deeper wate rif you see them in distress.

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