Pollutant Stressors and Freshwater Mussel Decline

Flashcards about the influence of multiple pollutant stressors on the decline of freshwater mussels.

What is the Clinch River watershed known for?

One of North America's greatest concentrations of freshwater biodiversity, including 46 extant species of native freshwater mussels.

How many mussel species in the Clinch River are federally endangered?

20

What is the primary focus of the study?

To evaluate the exposure of adult resident mussels to inorganic and organic contaminant stressors in the Clinch River.

What relationship was observed between PAH concentrations in mussel tissue and mussel densities?

A negative relationship; higher PAH concentrations were associated with lower mussel densities.

Which organic contaminants were found prevalent in the Clinch River?

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Which metal was identified as an important pollutant stressor to mussels in the Clinch River?

Manganese (Mn)

What could future conservation and management efforts benefit from?

Identifying and mitigating the sources of PAHs, Mn, and other mining-associated pollutants.

What ecosystem functions do native mussels perform?

Bioturbation, nutrient cycling, stabilization of lotic substrates, water filtration, and creation of biodeposits.

What is the Clinch River mussel 'zone of decline' (ZOD)?

An 88-km reach of the river where mussel populations have declined significantly.

What disturbances impact the Clinch River 'zone of decline' (ZOD)?

Wastewater effluents, chemical spills, runoff and sediment from agriculture, deforested lands, mining influences, and urbanization.

What were presumed as the primary concerns for mussels in terms of contaminants?

Major ions and water and sediment contaminants from mining and natural gas extraction.

The upper Guest River has not supported freshwater mussel populations due to…

Substantial agricultural, mining, and urban development disturbances, and PCB contamination.

The highest mussel tissue concentrations of Total PAHs in both years occurred where?

At the Semones site within the zone of mussel decline (ZOD)