Invasive Zebra Mussels Threaten Aquarium Moss Balls

Photo byWikimedia Commons

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife reported on Thursday that a wholesale aquarium company in Renton is at the center of a possible invasive freshwater mussel species invasion.

According to WDFW investigators, the company recently received a shipment of Marimo moss balls which are commonly used as decorative algae in aquariums and water gardens.

The department reports that lab testing has confirmed the shipment contained adult Zebra mussels, a banned aquatic species not native to Washington which could cause significant environmental damage.

“I would like to commend our industry partner for being vigilant and quickly alerting us to this occurrence,” said Kelly Susewind, WDFW director. “We are rapidly working alongside industry, tribal, state, and federal partners to address this incident.”

Zebra mussels were last detected in moss balls during a 2021 incident in Seattle which drew an international response and spurred federal policy changes after it spread to 41 states and nine Canadian provinces, the WDFW reports.

“We are asking anyone who has purchased Marimo moss balls within the last year from any retailer to inspect the moss balls and take steps to decontaminate their aquarium or water garden for invasive zebra mussels,” said Justin Bush, aquatic invasive species policy coordinator. “Anything that moves can move invasive species; problem plant seeds can hitchhike on your boots, aquatic animals can attach to your boat or equipment, and harmful species can also move by hitchhiking through commerce, as we see in this case.”

Zebra and Quagga mussels can clog pipes, utilities, locks, and dams, according to the WDFW. The department reports further that such damages could cost the state over $100 million annually to keep the state's power and water infrastructure running if mussels were to gain a foothold in Washington.

“If you see something, say something, because you could find the first hitchhiker and prevent millions, if not billions, of impacts to the economy and environment,” said Bush. “If you think your aquarium may be carrying invasive mussels, use the online reporting options including the Washington Invasives app or online reporting form. It is as easy as taking a photo and submitting for an expert to review.”

The WDFW reports that it is coordinating with other state agencies, including the Washington Department of Agriculture and Invasive Species Council in addition to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.