DEC Warns Aquarium Owners About Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in "Moss Balls"
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 03/09/2021 05:29 PM ESTDEC Delivers Press Release - Information to keep you connected and informed from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation |
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DEC Warns Aquarium Owners About Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in "Moss Balls" |
Consumers Encouraged to Follow U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Disposal Directions to Prevent Spread of Harmful Invasive SpeciesPet Stores Urged to Remove Moss Balls ImmediatelyThe New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is urging pet and aquarium stores and consumers to immediately remove and properly dispose of commercially purchased "moss balls" for aquariums after invasive zebra mussels were discovered inside and on some of these products, as reported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Consumers should be advised that moss ball products purchased from PetSmart and Petco may be subject to a voluntary product recall. Zebra mussels are an aquatic invasive species (AIS) that can cause environmental and economic harm. Several species of algae comprise moss balls, which are two to five inches in diameter. Zebra mussel larvae are so small that people cannot see them. If released, these larvae can cause great harm to waterbodies. Consumers are advised to remove and properly dispose of any moss balls purchased within the last year by following these steps:
Zebra mussels can quickly take over once established in a waterbody. These invasive pests will disrupt the food chain, change water chemistry, and clog water intake and delivery systems for drinking water, irrigation, and hydro power. Live mussels released into a storm drain or flushed could be introduced into a waterway, starting a new population and causing significant damage. AIS are non-native aquatic plants and animals that can cause environmental and economic harm, as well as harm to human health. New Yorkers can help protect the state's waters by preventing AIS from entering lakes, rivers, and ponds from aquarium releases. To find more information about DEC's guidelines for aquarium and pet owners, visit DEC's website. Invasive species are plants, animals, insects, and pathogens that are not native to an area and cause harm to the environment, agriculture, the economy, or human health. All New Yorkers can support the fight against invasive species by helping to locate and map infestations, using only local firewood, using Clean Drain Dry techniques to properly clean watercraft before and after boating, making informed choices for aquariums and aquatic gardens, and removing invasive species from the yard. To learn more about AIS, go to the DEC website. For more information regarding moss ball product recalls, visit Petco and PetSmart. |