Invasive species posing 'immediate threat' found in California, a first in North America

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An invasive mussel that poses a significant threat to other bivalves and the health of statewide water conveyances has been detected for the first time in North America in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Golden mussels were recently discovered in the Port of Stockton by wildlife officials and may have also infiltrated Merced County. Genetic testing is underway to see if the discovery at O'Neill Forebay in Merced County was golden mussels.

"The species poses a significant immediate threat to the ecological health of the Delta and all waters of the state, water conveyance systems, infrastructure and water quality," the Department of Fish and Wildlife said Thursday in a news release.

Native to China and Southeast Asia, golden mussels proliferated across South America while posing problems similar to other invasive mussels. They clogged pipes and altered the food web, according to the University of Wisconsin. The presence of golden mussels has resulted in diminished water quality, wildlife officials said.

The bivalves most likely invaded California through a ship traveling from an international port. It could soon spread from the California Delta through freshwater bodies across the United States, wildlife officials said.

Residents should clean, drain and dry water equipment to prevent their spread, the release said. Wildlife officials are also inspecting boats at O'Neill Forebay.

Organisms suspected to be golden mussels should be reported to the Department of Fish and Wildlife's invasive species program. People are asked to include the specific location it was found, at least one photo of the animal and contact information.

2024 The Sacramento Bee. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.