Biology of the exotic zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, in relation to native bivalves and its potential impact in Lake St. Clair

An overview is presented on the biology and impact of the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, in Lake St Clair, ON, Canada. Descriptions are provided of the shell form, life cycle, reproductive potential, population dynamics, and distribution. Differences between the zebra mussel and native bivalves...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Hydrobiologia 1991-07, Vol.219 (1), p.251-268
Main Author: MACKIE, G. L
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animal and plant ecology
Animal, plant and microbial ecology
Animals
Biological and medical sciences
Demecology
Dreissena polymorpha
Freshwater
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
Invertebrates
Protozoa. Invertebrata
Unionidae
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Summary:An overview is presented on the biology and impact of the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, in Lake St Clair, ON, Canada. Descriptions are provided of the shell form, life cycle, reproductive potential, population dynamics, and distribution. Differences between the zebra mussel and native bivalves are highlighted. Impacts to the aquatic ecosystem primarily involve the colonization on native species of unionid clams. The infestations can become so great that the unionids are not able to fully open their valves so that locomotion and burrowing activities are impaired. Invasive growth also interferes with the normal functioning of the siphons, especially for respiration and feeding. The socioeconomic impacts of zebra mussels on commercial fishing and beach accumulations are discussed.
ISSN:0018-8158
1573-5117
DOI:10.1007/BF00024759