Zebra mussel, also known as Dreissena polymopha; they are finger-nail sized and it attaches to hard surfaces in water. For many years zebra mussel are known to cause residential problem and affect aquatic living things.

Zebra mussels are D-shape shells with alternating yellow and brownish color. Adults are ¼ to 1 ½ inches long. Female Zebra mussels can produce above a 100,000 eggs per year. These eggs grows into microscopic living larvae called veligers. These microscopic veligers start to attach to firm surfaces using “byssal threads”. The ability to have a “byssal threads” make it possible to attach to surface.

Zebra mussels were discovered in North America, the great lakes 1988. By the 18th and 19th centuries, zebra mussels spread to all major drainages of Europe because of widespread construction of canal systems. Zebra mussels are able to filter particles smaller than 1pm in diameter, although they prefer to feed off larger particles. Although zebra mussels are threat to most living things, they’re prey to native fish, and other animals. Adult zebra mussels are protected by their strong shell, so it makes it difficult to be eaten by other animals.

Zebra mussels are known to live over a long period of time. This statement proves that zebra mussels has an increase of Biological, Economic, and Human Health Impact. Zebra mussels relate to other mussel species because they attach to hard surfaces located at moderate depth. In 1989, power-plants located in areas of extensive zebra mussel have reported significant reductions in pumping capabilities and occasional shutdowns. As significant filter feeders, zebra mussels increases human and wildlife exposure to organic pollutant.

To keep water safe and clean; The Help Stop Zebra Mussel Invasion in 2010, Order boaters to drain all bilge water, live wells, and bait buckets before leaving infested areas. Do not transport leftover bait from infested waterways to other waters. Thoroughly inspect your boat’s hull, Thoroughly flush hulls, Thoroughly dry boats and trailers and lastly On boats that remain in the water, avoid leaving outdrive in the down position.

To conclude the zebra mussel species has been known to be a threat to living things over a long period of time. Currently scientist are working on solving the zebra mussel problem, by creating products that help avoid living things being exposed to organic pollutant. They have not yet succeeded in getting rid of them completely; but for now the population of zebra mussel will continue to grow.

• Questions
   How much damages has been done by zebra mussel around the world?
   Has there been death caused by zebra mussel around the world?
   What has the nation done about the spreading of zebra mussel?