(Limnoperna fortunei)
*Not detected in Michigan*
Report this species to:
Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool.
- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home.
Identification:
Photo courtesy of Carlos Henckes, Conquiliologistas Do Brasil.
Photo courtesy of Gustavo Darrigran.
Habitat: Golden mussels are a primarily freshwater species. They are capable of tolerating polluted and contaminated water, brackish water, waters relatively low in pH and calcium levels, heated waters and waters subject to periodic hypoxia through organic enrichment.
Diet: These filter feeders consume phytoplankton, zooplankton and organic matter as adults, while larvae feed on bacteria.
Native Range: China and southeastern Asia.
Local Concern: Golden mussels could act as a host for parasitic infections to cyprinid fishes, threaten biodiversity and could starve out and suffocate native bivalves.
Potential Means of Introduction: Ballast water, shipments of live Asian clams.
