National alerts have gone out from the USFWS, the federal Aquatic Nuisance Task and regional aquatic invasive species management groups. Department of Agriculture, several state wildlife agencies and an industry group, the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council, are also taking steps to mitigate the problem. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is coordinating the response along with the USGS.
Consumers are advised to remove and properly dispose of any moss balls purchased within the last year. If released, these larvae can cause great harm to water bodies. Zebra mussel larvae are so small that people cannot see them. Moss balls are purchased for home aquariums are found in pet stores nationwide. What are Moss Balls?Ī moss ball is a species of green algae that is formed into a ball and is 2 to 5 inches in diameter. The only states yet to report contaminated moss balls are West Virginia, Delaware, Rhode Island, and Hawaii. How Many States have Detected Zebra Mussels in Moss ball products?Īs of April 27, 2021, zebra mussel contaminated moss balls have been discovered in 46 states. Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in Pet Stores in 21 States ( USGS Press Release, Mar 8, 2021) The concern is that live mussels released into a storm drain or flushed could be introduced into a waterway.
Zebra mussels can quickly take over once they get established in a waterbody and cause significant damage including disrupting the food chain, changing the chemistry of the water (which can cause more blue green algae outbreaks or offensive taste), and clogging water intake and delivery systems. Zebra mussels are regarded as one of the most destructive invasive species in North America. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists were notified on Februthat zebra mussels were found attached and inside moss balls sold as aquarium plants. The report came from a Seattle PetCo employee who found zebra mussels attached and inside “Betta Buddy Marimo Ball” moss plants. See also: Pathways for other means and routes invasive species are introduced into new environments. Invasive zebra mussels have been found in "moss balls,” an aquarium plant product sold at aquarium and pet supply stores.
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