Mighty Mussels (Alabama)
Alabama has over 180 different species of freshwater mussels in its rivers and streams. Freshwater mussels are bivalve organisms related to clams and oysters. They act as food for aquatic animals, fishes, and birds, as well as some land mammals. Mussels are filter feeders, meaning they feed by taking in water, filtering out plankton (microscopic free-floating organisms they eat), and releasing the water back into the river. Through this process, they also filter out suspended pollutants and particles in the water. One freshwater mussel can filter out several gallons of water a day! Through helping to clean Alabama rivers, they also help to reduce the amount of sediment and pollution that flows into the Gulf of Mexico.
Viewer Tip: Freshwater mussels are sensitive to pollution and sediment overload, and they are natural indicators of water quality. Too much pollution and erosion have led to the decline of their population. You can help control polluted rain water runoff and erosion on your property by:
- Planting a “buffer” of trees and shrubs in your yard and along the edge of any river or stream in your neighborhood to trap sediment before it enters the water;
- Disposing of hazardous materials (like pesticides and engine oil), litter, and pet and yard waste properly – without dumping them into storm drains or onto streets;
- Reducing the amount of fertilizers and pesticides you use in your yard, and following directions properly when applying them;
- Buying household cleaners and detergents that are low in phosphorous, a nutrient that can degrade water quality.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
(Sources: Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Diversity of Freshwater Mussels in Alabama. http://dcnr.state.al.us/education/publications/fnamussel.cfm. National Park Service. Freshwater Mussel Fact Sheet. www.nps.gov/sacn/naturescience/upload/Mussel%20factsheet.pdf.)
