What is a zebra mussel?
Q: What is a zebra mussel?
A: A zebra mussel is a small bivalve mollusc that is typically attached to objects, surfaces, or each other by threads underneath the shells.
Q: How do zebra mussels spread?
A: Zebra mussels spread rapidly by sticking to boats, and they can spread by this passive method to many places where they have no natural predators.
Q: What distinguishes zebra mussels from quagga mussels?
A: Zebra mussels can be easily distinguished from quagga mussels because when placed on a surface they are stable on their flattened underside while quagga mussels lack a flat underside and will fall over.
Q: Why are zebra mussels a problem in Northern America's Great Lakes region?
A: Zebra mussels are a problem in Northern America's Great Lakes region because they reproduce fast and colonize water supply pipes of hydroelectric and nuclear power plants, public water supply plants, and industrial facilities, clogging water sources and constricting flow.
Q: How do zebra mussels affect industrial facilities?
A: Zebra mussels colonize pipes in industrial facilities, constricting flow and reducing the intake in heat exchangers, condensers, fire fighting equipment, and air conditioning and cooling systems.
Q: Will zebra mussels continue to populate the Great Lakes?
A: Yes, it is estimated that zebra mussels will continue to populate the Great Lakes and even enter the Mississippi River region.
Q: What is the color pattern of zebra mussels?
A: The color pattern of zebra mussels can vary, with some having dark or colored shells and others having no stripes.
