Signs of invasive zebra mussel confirmed in Colorado River near Grand Junction
Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced Tuesday that it has discovered zebra mussels in the Colorado River and the Government Highline Canal, nearly two years after the invasive species was first detected in the state. The small, freshwater mussels are native to lakes in Russia and Ukraine, but they are known globally for their rapid reproduction rate. Wildlife officials say the species poses an extreme risk to local ecosystems because zebra mussels kill off native plankton that native species rely on for food. Infestations can also devastate water infrastructure because the mussels attach themselves to surfaces in large clusters, clogging waterways and drainage systems. CPW said they discovered the newly confirmed zebra mussel population through routine plankton samples taken in early July.
Related articles:
- KKTV: Presence of invasive zebra mussels detected in Colorado River: What this means and what’s next
- The Denver Gazette: CPW notifies public of “devastating” discovery in Colorado River
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife news release: CPW announces discovery of Zebra Mussels in the Colorado River and Government Highline Canal