Fish Enlisted in Battle against Invasive Quagga Mussels
BERLIN-Researchers are exploring a novel biological control method too combat teh rapidly spreading Quagga mussel infestation in European waterways: enlisting the help of fish that naturally prey on the mollusks.A new study is underway to determine the effectiveness of utilizing these fish as a means of curbing the invasive species’ growth and mitigating its damaging effects on infrastructure and ecosystems.
The Quagga mussel, originally from the Ponto-Caspian region, has become a significant ecological and economic problem as its introduction to Europe via ballast water from ships. The mussels colonize pipes, dams, and other underwater structures, causing blockages and costly damage. Their prolific filtering also disrupts the food chain, impacting native species. The study aims to assess whether strategically introducing or encouraging populations of mussel-eating fish can offer a enduring and environmentally amiable solution to control the invasion and prevent further disruption.
