masthead graphic
ISM System :Fresh Water Mussel Image Gallery
Illinois Mussels
Introduction
Anatomy
Habitat
Life Cycle
Human Uses
Diversity
Mussel Database
Photo Gallery
Identification Activity
Activities
Glossary
Resources
Credits
Harvesting the River

Genus Dreissena

Class Bivalvia : Subclass Heterodonta : Genus Dreissena

Dreissena polymorpha (Zebra)
Zebra mussels are small (length to 1.5 inches), with triangular, elongated shells. There are cream and brown bands on the outer surface.
Zebra mussels live in lakes and streams of all sizes. They attach themselves to hard surfaces, including rocks and other mussel shells by byssal threads (gluelike fibers).
Conservation status:They were introduced into the Great Lakes from eastern Europe in the 1980s and are spreading throughout the country.
Taxonomy: Order Veneroida, Superfamily Dreissenoidea, Family Dreissenidae.

Collection of the Illinois State Museum, photographed by Robert Warren
ISM Accession #: none

<b><i>Dreissena polymorpha</i> (Zebra)</b>

Class Bivalvia : Subclass Heterodonta : Genus Dreissena

First | Previous | Next | Last

Copyright © 2012 Illinois State Museum Site Map | ISM Privacy Information | Kids Privacy | Web Accessibility | Webmaster| Illinois DNR