Home > Harvesting > Freshwater Mussels > Species> Ebony Shell   Ebonyshell (Fusconaia ebena) The Ebonyshell (Fusconaia ebena) was the most prized button shell in the United States because of its good texture and fine pearly luster. It is a big-river species that was formerly abundant in the Mississippi River and common in the lower portion of the Illinois River. However, pollution, siltation, and dam construction have virtually eliminated its populations in these streams. (Conservation Status: State Threatened)

Harvesting (-)Harvesting Subjects     Harvest Introduction     (-)Fish         Introduction         Fish Species         Fishing Industry         Tools and Techniques     (-)Waterfowl         Introduction         Waterfowl Species         Hunting Industry         Tools and Techniques     (-)Mussels         Introduction         Fresh Water Mussel Species         Musseling Industry         Tools and Techniques     (-)Ice         Introduction         Natural Ice         Commercial Ice         Tools         Ice Harvesting     Top

State of Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources Illinois State Museum Search