Freshwater Mussels

One of the fun projects I was able to join was looking for mussels in the Cuyahoga River. Fresh water mussels are an important part of the river’s ecosystem. They used to be in the river before pollutants and industrial development negatively affected the river and its aquatic life. In recent years, there has been efforts to change the water quality and pollution in the river to reintroduce the freshwater mussels along with other species. Bringing back the mussels will enhance habitats and improve the water quality in the Cuyahoga River. They remove bacteria as well as provide nutrients for other aquatic life.  During my time in the water, my job was to look for mussels that are alive and see what the ideal habitats are for them. Most of the alive mussels were grouped together near shade. Resorting the balance of the river and biodiversity will create an immense ecological restoration. The mussels will act as filter feeders and contribute to the recovery of fish populations by providing habitats and food sources.