The Quagga and Zebra Mussel Threat
California officials have announced a coordinated effort to prevent and control harmful invasive species infestations throughout the state. The California Invasive Species Council will assist in minimizing the negative effects of non-native species on the state’s agriculture, lands, natural resources, and waterways in rural and urban environments.
Invasive Quagga and Zebra mussels are non-native aquatic mollusks that wreak havoc on the environment by disrupting the natural food chain. The mussels are filter feeders that can cause a shift in native species and a disruption of the ecological balance of entire bodies of water. The mollusks also pose a dramatic economic threat to California.
A state multi-agency taskforce has created a guidebook to help water managers and recreationalists take part in the fight against invasive Quagga and Zebra mussels. The “Invasive Mussel Guidebook” outlines how aquatic mollusks can devastate waterways and why local governments and water users should encourage all Californians not to move a mussel.
Access the INVASIVE MUSSEL GUIDEBOOK that provides strategies for local involvement in the Quagga and Zebra mussel response.
Related links
Additional information about Quagga and Zebra mussels is available by visiting these links:
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife Quagga/Zebra Mussel Fact Sheet
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife Frequently Asked Questions About Quagga/Zebra Mussels
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife
- California Department of Water Resources
- California Division of Boating and Waterways
- California Department of Parks and Recreation
- California Department of Food and Agriculture
A public toll-free hotline – 1-866-440-9530 – has also been established for information about destructive Quagga and Zebra mussels. The toll-free number is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.