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Author: McMahon, Robert
Email: r.mcmahon@uta.edu
Phone: 817-480-2524
Organization: The University of Texas at Arlington
Address:
Box 19498,
Arlington,
TX,
76019
Abstract Title: ZEBRA MUSSELS IN TEXAS: AN UPDATE
Abstract Text: In Texas, sustainably reproducing zebra mussel populations have been recorded in Lakes Texoma, Ray Roberts, Belton, Lewisville and Bridgeport since 2009, 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2015, respectively. Lakes Lewisville and Bridgeport are in the early stages of infestation. In contrast, peak mussel densities occurred in Lakes, Texoma, Ray Roberts and Belton in 2011, 2014 and 2014, followed by population collapses in 2013, 2015 and 2015, respectively. Density reductions were marked by declining juvenile settlement. Mussel population crashes have also occurred in Oklahoma and Kansas with their cause(s) yet to be determined. Texas mussels have life spans of 1.0-1.5 years, unusually rapid growth rates and spring and fall reproductive periods. Potential zebra mussel mussel introduction to other Texas water bodies has been documented by PCR DNA testing (14 lakes) and presence of veliger larvae (3 lakes) without subsequent establishment of adult populations. Texas water bodies most prone to successful mussel invasion appear to be relatively deep with reduced summer surface water temperatures (<30 degrees C).
Conference
Year: TIPPC_2016
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Presenter Type (Student or Regular): Regular
Session: 1. Leadership and Coordination
Submission Date: 2016-02-19
