Freshwater Biology and Conservation

Our laboratory is dedicated to the study of the biology and conservation of freshwater mussels, unionids [Bivalvia:Unionidae]), a unique group of freshwater bivalves. These living filters were once prevalent throughout NorthAmerica, where more than 290 species have been documented. A uniqueaspect of their lifecycle, the attachment of the larval stage(glochidia) to the gills or fins of a fish distinguishs them from otherfreshwater and marine bivalves. This obligate relationship betweenmussel larvae and host supports the metamorphosis of larvae tojuveniles. Freshwater mussels are among the most imperiled groups of animals on the planet. Our efforts are conducted in cooperation with colleagues representing numerous local municipal, state, and federal agencies, universities, foundations and local community groups (our partners) all working collectively to enhance our understanding of freshwater mussel biology and support their conservation (read more about their decline and conservation...).    WHY SHOULD I CARE ABOUT FRESHWATER MUSSELS? 

Basic Biology

Life Cycle	Amazing Videos and Images	Status and Distribution
Atlantic Slope Species	Little Tennessee Watershed Proj	Mussels in Ukraine

Captive Propagation

The Propagation Process	The Mussel Barn	The Hatcheries
Species propagated	Carolina Heelsplitter	Role of Aquatic Insects

 AECL Projects

Diagnostic Techniques	Food Web Dynamics	Microbial Communities
Nutrition	Effects of Bridges and Culverts	Effects of PCBs