Texas Mussel Watch

Texas Freshwater Mussel Biology

Freshwater mussels feed by filtering algae and small particles from the water. Most species have a larval stage that is parasitic on fish. Larvae are released by the female mussel and must locate a certain fish species or die. They usually attach to the host fish's gills or fins where they remain for a few weeks or months. Larval mussels rarely harm infected fish under natural conditions. If essential fish species are removed from the habitat, mussels will not be able to reproduce.

Texas Freshwater Mussel Reproductive Cycle

Drawing shows adult male freshwater mussels in the substrate of a water body releasing sperm to females. The young mussels or Glochidia can come in a hooked or hookless form. Glochidia are released into the water and attach to a fish's fins or to a fish's gills. When they become juveniles, they drop back to the substrata for the cycle to begin again.