Conserving Minnesota's Native Freshwater Mussels

Though they are a relatively unnoticed group of species, native freshwater mussels are a critical part of river ecosystems because they provide a variety of important functions including improved water clarity, enhanced streambed stability, reduced downstream transport of contaminants, and creation of habitat for other aquatic life. However, mussel populations in Minnesota have declined in recent decades as a result of habitat destruction, pollution, land-use change, over-harvesting, and the introduction of exotic species. Researchers at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to conduct surveying and analysis to better understand mussel abundance, distribution, and interactions with habitats in order to guide efforts to preserve and restore native mussel populations and maintain the ecosystem services they provide.