Zebra Mussels are freshwater molluscs now found in the lakes and river of North America. “Biologists believe the zebra mussels were picked up in a freshwater European port in the ballast H2O of a ship and were subsequently discharged into the Canadian side of Lake St. Clair” ( Nationalatlas. gov. 2008 ) . The natural inclination of the mussels to reproduce and its ability to attach in any marine surface or construction causes a batch of expensive jobs.
Among the important jobs created by the features of these mussels include the blocking of pipes that deliver imbibing and processed H2O to metropoliss and chilling H2O to power workss ( Environment News Service. 2009 ) . The mussels are besides known to cleaving to boats. bouys. docks. and other Marine constructions which contribute to the impairment of and damage to these equipments. The primary control mechanism for the infestation of these molluscs is physical remotion from the affected equipment.
Physical barriers are besides used. Poisons are non used because these mussels are extremely tolerant and a batch of other species will die. even before the mussels are affected. Chemical coatings of pipes and filtration of critical waterways are besides included in the control systems. The continued presence of the Zebra Mussels will certainly increase the cost of care of H2O constructions that is used for diversion and industry. Delivery of power to families will be higher.
Prevention is still the best control step communities must follow for this peculiar invasion because of the doggedness of the species involved. Since it has been established that this peculiar invasion occurred thru sea pilotage and trade paths. it is really of import to beg international cooperation for the creative activity and execution of guidelines to command the spread of the species and protect unaffected countries.
Mentions
Environment News Service. ( 23. April 2009 ) Risk Guide Fights Back Against Costly Aquatic Invaders. Retrieved May 15. 2009. from hypertext transfer protocol: //www. ens-newswire. com/ens/apr2009/ 2009-04-23-091. asp Nationalatlas. gov. ( 8. October 2008 ) Zebra Mussels. Retrieved May 15. 2009. from hypertext transfer protocol: //nationalatlas. gov/articles/biology/a_zm. hypertext markup language
