Zebra Mussel, lat. Dreissena polymorpha- Dreissena polymorpha distribution
Family: Dreissenidae;
Genus: Dreissena;
Species and synonyms: Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha, Zebra Mussel, Wandering Mussel, Mytilus polymorphus).
GBIF:
Zebra Mussel (lat. Dreissena polymorpha) is a species of bivalve mollusk from the order Veneroida, family Dreissenidae, genus Dreissena. A widely known species found in fresh and brackish waters.
Distribution. The natural range covers water bodies of Europe, Asia Minor and the Near East, as well as the Black, Azov, Caspian and Aral Seas. It originates from the Ponto-Caspian region. In the late 20th century, it appeared in North American waters. In Russia, it is widespread in fresh waters, reservoirs, rivers and lakes.
Care requirements. The Zebra Mussel has a drop-shaped or oval-wedge-shaped shell, 3–5 cm long. Coloration is greenish-yellow or brownish, often with zigzag dark stripes. In the aquarium, they prefer clean water with good filtration. Optimal water parameters: temperature 15–25°C, hardness 8–20 dGH, pH 7.0–8.5. Mollusks lead a sedentary lifestyle, attaching to stones, driftwood and other surfaces using byssal threads.
They feed by filtering water and absorbing suspended detritus, bacteria and unicellular algae. They actively purify aquarium water from suspended particles. However, they require careful handling and regular population control, as they can clog filters and pipes. Life expectancy is 3–5 years.
In the aquarium, Zebra Mussels are peaceful filter feeders that get along well with most peaceful fish and shrimp. It is not recommended to keep them with predatory fish that can damage their thin shells. Reproduction occurs through a planktonic larva (veliger), which, after settling, attaches to the substrate. In aquarium conditions, breeding is difficult as it requires special conditions.