Development of Selective Control Tools Active
Management Tools for Dreissenid Mussels
Currently, dreissenid mussel populations are spreading and becoming a growing problem in many aquatic systems, making it important to find management techniques that are selective for the invasive mussel populations while leaving the native populations intact. Control technology for dreissenids in open water currently relies on a limited number of molluscicides that must be applied within or under a barrier to achieve effective concentration. These applications can be costly and adversely impact nontarget species. Microparticle methods are in development that will target delivery of a control tool to dreissenid mussels and reduce impacts of nontarget organisms, including fish and native mussels. This technology could potentially be efficacious without the need for a containment barrier.
The overall goal of this project is to develop a microparticle for delivery of a dreissenid control tool.
Objectives:
- Determine uptake of various formulations and sizes of microparticle by dreissenid mussels.
- Evaluate leach-rate of toxicant from the microparticle at various water temperatures.
- Determine toxicity of microparticle to dreissenids in laboratory field trials.
- Determine safety of microparticle to nontarget organisms in laboratory and field trials.
Management Tools for Dreissenid Mussels
Currently, dreissenid mussel populations are spreading and becoming a growing problem in many aquatic systems, making it important to find management techniques that are selective for the invasive mussel populations while leaving the native populations intact. Control technology for dreissenids in open water currently relies on a limited number of molluscicides that must be applied within or under a barrier to achieve effective concentration. These applications can be costly and adversely impact nontarget species. Microparticle methods are in development that will target delivery of a control tool to dreissenid mussels and reduce impacts of nontarget organisms, including fish and native mussels. This technology could potentially be efficacious without the need for a containment barrier.
The overall goal of this project is to develop a microparticle for delivery of a dreissenid control tool.
Objectives:
- Determine uptake of various formulations and sizes of microparticle by dreissenid mussels.
- Evaluate leach-rate of toxicant from the microparticle at various water temperatures.
- Determine toxicity of microparticle to dreissenids in laboratory field trials.
- Determine safety of microparticle to nontarget organisms in laboratory and field trials.