Zebra Mussel

Native to Russia and Ukraine, this highly invasive mussel has been introduced throughout the U.S., most commonly as a “hitchhiker” on boats, motors, and trailers. It is easily distinguishable by the “zebra”-like stripes on the shell. It may outcompete native mussels when introduced and pose other ecological problems. Economically, this invasive can cause millions of dollars in damage by clogging water intake pipes of commercial facilities and damaging boat motor parts.

Photo Credits: stopaquatichitchhikers.org