Relationship Between Dressenid Mussel Infestations and Microcystis Blooms
Agency: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Location: Ohio, Michigan
Treatment Type: N/A
Treatment Method Used: N/A
This research project investigated the impacts of dressenid mussel infestations on the occurrence of Microcystis blooms. Feeding and nutrient experiments, genetic studies, and mussel behavioral observations were conducted in both the laboratory and in field enclosures. Mussels were exposed to different Microcystis strains native to Michigan and Ohio. Enclosure experiments were conducted in Gull Lake, Saginaw Bay, and Lake Erie. Results show that when the abundance of dreissenid mussels relative to algal growth rate is high, mussels will likely contribute to Microcystis dominance.
Partner Agencies:
University of Michigan,
Michigan State University,
University of Wisconsin
Contact:
James Larson, U.S. Geological Survey