Lake Nasworthy, close to San Angelo, has been designated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ( TPWD ) as “infested” with invasive zebra mussels. This designation indicates that the lake has a proven reproducing community.
During the fall spawning period of the mussels, TPWD confirmed the presence of zebra mussel larvae (veligers ) in the middle of March from plankton samples taken in November of that year. Samples taken at two locations on the lake, close to the Knickerbocker Road gate, and close to the bridge, revealed zebra mussel larvae.
Afterwards, TPWD fisheries biologists searched the shore and substrate at various locations around the lake. Along the beach close to the gate, the biologists discovered a one, adult, settled zebra mussel. The presence of adult mussels and caterpillars at various locations indicate that there is a well-established, reproducing people.
The spread of this highly invasive species to rivers in the eastern region of the state is, regrettably, a pattern, according to Monica McGarrity, TPWD senior scholar for aquatic invasive species. ” It is crucial to stop the further spread of zebra mussels that all boaters take the necessary steps to properly clean, discharge, and dry ships to prevent the spread of aggressive types.”
At the local Twin Buttes Reservoir, algae samples were taken in the slide, but happily neither zebra mussel larvae nor DNA were found. These findings indicate that Twin Buttes is still completely right now of this invasive oyster. This spring, TPWD may continue to monitor Twin Buttes Reservoir and gather more plankton examples.
Zebra clams, a non-native crab that grows on hard surfaces, are a major threat to our lakes. These aggressive mussels harm boats and the infrastructure for the water supply, alter lake ecosystems, and harm native species. Additionally, dangerous, strong shells that effect beachfront recreation are strewn all over the shorelines.
Boats play a crucial role in preventing zebra mussels from spreading to fresh lakes because they are most frequently transported on or in canoes. Zebra mussels can live for days in the ocean, frequently hiding in crevices where they may leave notice. They attach to boats and anything left in the ocean, including anchors, and are attached to everything. Their microscopic eggs may be accidentally transported in leftover water in boats because they are free-floating and invisible to the naked eye.
There are far more rivers that haven’t been invaded and are in danger, according to Brian Van Zee, TPWD Inland Fisheries Regional Director.” Invasive oysters have now spread to 38 Texas rivers, with 34 completely infested. ” Every canoeist can make a big difference in protecting our Texas lake by taking the necessary steps to clean and dump their boat before leaving the lake and allow divisions and items to dry completely when they get home.”
Before moving from lake to lake, TPWD urges boaters to follow these three simple but important steps: clear, discharge, and dry boats and products. Remove all plants, dirt, and dust, and then, when you get home, empty the compartments and allow anything to dry completely for at least a week.
If a boat or other piece of equipment, such as barges, docks, lifts, pumps, etc., has been stored in the waters of a lake with aggressive mussels, they are highly likely to be contaminated and pose a significant risk of moving these invasive species to a new river without proper decontamination. Call TPWD at ( 512 ) 389-4848 for assistance before moving a boat or other equipment that has been stored in the water.
The transport of these organisms can cause legal trouble for boaters in addition to the harm that invasive species can cause to aquatic ecosystems, water infrastructure, and the recreational experience at lakes. The Texas law prohibits the transportation of prohibited aquatic invasive species, and each violation is punishable by a fine of up to$ 500. Boaters are required to clear any water from their boats and onboard receptacles, including bait buckets, before approaching or leaving a body of fresh water, according to the law. Before leaving a lake, they must also remove any invasive plants from the trailer and boat.
Visit the TPWD YouTube channel for a brief instructional video for more information on how to properly clean, drain, and dry boats and equipment. Visit tpwd to learn more about zebra mussels and other invasive species in Texas. Texas. gov/StopInvasives
Anyone who spots invasive species on boats, trailers, or other equipment moving can help prevent new introductions by reporting the sighting to TPWD at ( 512 ) 389-4848. TPWD and partners monitor for invasive species in Texas lakes. Anyone who discovers invasive species like zebra mussels in lakes where they haven’t previously been found can send email to aquaticinvasives@tpwd.texas with photos and location information. gov.
