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Freshwater Mussels
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The status of the freshwater mussels native to the
Pacific Northwest has received very little attention, despite the
fact that freshwater mussels are considered to be the most endangered
group of animals in North America.
Freshwater mussels filter pollutants and improve water quality. Some of the Pacific Northwest species appear to be in decline, which may be due to habitat loss or a decline in fish species that serve as hosts for early life stages of freshwater mussels. |
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Margaritifera
falcata bed, photo by CTUIR
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The Pacific Northwest Native Freshwater Mussel Workgroup aims to conserve freshwater mussels by ensuring that research, management, and educational activities are coordinated, prioritized, and consistent with identified information needs. The Mussel workgroup has an excellent field guide to the freshwater mussels that inhabit the Pacific Northwest. To view a PDF of this guide, visit the Pacific Northwest Native Freshwater Mussel Workgroup website. |
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