As part of our conservation science studies, summer intern Jess Hazel from New Zealand is undertaking a survey of the freshwater mussels within the Little Campbell River.  Freshwater mussels are an important part of the river ecosystem. As filter feeders they help by cleansing the water, reducing suspended solids, and controlling nutrient levels. They are also water quality indicators – teaching us about the health and life of the river catchment.

Many freshwater mussels are known to be at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, declining water quality and predation of host species. At one time there were nearly 300 mussel species found within North America. 10% of these are now extinct and a further 65% in serious decline.

The primary mussel species that occurs within the Little Campbell watershed is the Western Pearlshell (M. falcata), a long lived mussel species (Jess has already found many that are over 100 years old!). While we hope to find other species during our survey, our primary goal is to map the density and distribution of the Western Pearlshell, and to determine whether the population is healthy and reproducing.