Invasive Golden Mussels Found in California's Delta, Threatening Water Systems

Rahul Somvanshi

Golden mussels from Asia discovered in Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta mark their first appearance in North America.

Photo Source: Boltovskoy Wikimedia ( CC BY-SA 4.0)

These invasive mollusks pose threats to California's native species and ecosystems.

Photo Source: Oleskandra Biliak (Pexels)

The microscopic young of golden mussels survive long journeys between water bodies through standing water in boats.

Photo Source: Doc. RNDr. Josef Reischig, CSc.Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Adult mussels create infestations by attaching themselves to watercraft and transportation equipment.

Photo Source: D. Jude, Univ. of Michigan Wikimedia

These mussels can clog water intakes and pipes, affecting water infrastructure.

Photo Source: EMarrone Bio Innovations, Inc

Valley Water partners with California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Department of Water Resources to assess and prevent spread.

Photo Source: Alena Shekhovtcova (Pexels)

Watercraft inspection programs at local reservoirs receive crucial updates to restrict golden mussel movement.

Photo Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region (Flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

Several European countries, including Germany, protect these ants as logging, urbanization and climate change reduce their numbers.

Photo Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region (Flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

Public awareness campaigns launched to educate communities about preventing golden mussel contamination.

Photo Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region (Flickr) (CC BY 2.0)