INVASIVE SPECIES [ZEBRA MUSSELS] | Rick Dahlstrom
Zebra and quagga mussels are in Long Lake!
Zebra Mussels
Zebra mussels are a well-known invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Together with their cousin the quagga mussel (which can grow a little larger and live in deeper waters, but looks the same), they have spread into inland waters and the Great Lakes since they arrived in Lake St. Clair.
2024 Update
Before 2020, we had very few findings of Zebra Mussels in Long Lake. Based on reports from LLA members, 2021 showed a significant increase in Zebra Mussel findings. Since then, reports from members indicate that the problem has worsened. The number of reports and the reported size of the colonies have increased. Larger colonies are problematic because they can cause injury due to their sharp-edged shells. The picture shown is an example of a colony that was found along the shoreline off Crescent Shores.
The LLA has researched treatment options to eliminate or control the growing numbers of zebra mussels. One treatment method uses a product named Zequanox. Experiments using Zequanox were conducted in Lake Michigan and in Round Lake near Petoskey. The tests proved ineffective and expensive. Currently, there is no effective remedy for Zebra Mussels.
Given that there is no magic remedy for eradicating Zebra Mussels, what can we do? The LLA suggests that as you come across them, cleanly remove them from their attachment and destroy them on dry land. Do not leave any part of the mussel body in the water. PLEASE educate friends, relatives, and renters who may be bringing boats onto the Lake to wash their boats and clean out ballast or bilge tanks before launching. Put the new boat washing station at Long Lake Township to good use! While Zebra Mussels have made it into our lakes, we can still prevent other invasive species from gaining access.
Thank you for all that you do to maintain the high quality of Long Lake.
FEMALES CAN PRODUCE A MILLION EGGS A YEAR!
In 2021 zebra mussels are again reproducing in Long Lake. Each female can produce a million eggs in a year. As you see in our lake they are often found attached to clamshells. If you see Zebra Mussels on rocks, clams, dock stands, or anything else, please immediately remove them from the lake. We should all stay vigilant while enjoying our time in the water.