Mussels Could Sneak In Through Aquariums

Invasive zebra mussels have found another avenue for potential infestation of regional waters including Idaho and Wyoming.
Several wildlife agencies across the U.S. are warning that zebra mussels were detected in aquarium moss balls sold under the name Betta Buddy Marimo Ball at pet stores throughout the region.
It appears these moss balls were imported from Ukraine to a distributor in California and were shipped to pet stores nationwide. The facility that imports the moss balls has been quarantined and all shipments of moss balls have been stopped. However, live mussels were found on moss balls recently purchased in Oregon and Idaho.
A moss ball is a species of green algae that is formed into a ball and is 2 to 5 inches in diameter. Moss balls are purchased for home aquariums to help absorb harmful nutrients in the water and limit the growth of undesirable algae.
Wildlife officials urge if you have recently purchased moss balls, remove them from the water, place them in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. Do not dispose of your aquarium tank water in your household drain!
Additional guidance for addressing potential mussels in aquariums and how to treat tank water will be available soon.
 

Jackson Hole Radio
Latest posts by Jackson Hole Radio (see all)