A recent study has found that the invasive Asian clam is more prevalent in the lower Columbia River than in its native habitat of southeast Asia. These findings raise concerns about potential future invasions by even more destructive quagga and zebra mussels. Currently, the Columbia River is one of the only major U.S. rivers that remains free of these harmful bivalves.
The study, led by Washington State University, aimed to understand the factors that limit the spread of Asian clams and assess the variety of habitats they can survive in. The researchers discovered that Asian clams can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, water qualities, and substrates. They sampled 27 sites along the river, covering a distance of 481 kilometers, and found evidence of Asian clams’ presence throughout the lower Columbia River.
The abundance of Asian clams was found to be greater below the Bonneville Dam, with the highest concentration at the Sandy River confluence in Gresham, Oregon. Although the clams were more prevalent in warmer waters and less steep or sandy areas, there were few habitats devoid of them.
Asian clams are considered global invaders and have been found on almost every continent. They arrived in the Columbia River around 1938 and have disrupted local ecosystems by competing for resources with native species. Moreover, their larvae and mucus secretions can clog up aquatic infrastructure, causing economic damage.
While the current population of Asian clams in the Columbia River is concerning, other regions, such as East Coast rivers and Lake Tahoe in California, have even higher populations. However, the real concern lies with quagga and zebra mussels, which reproduce rapidly and have caused significant damage in the Great Lakes.
To prevent the invasion of these destructive mollusks, it is crucial for humans to take precautionary measures. Boaters should clean their hull, hold, and trailer according to Department of Fish and Wildlife guidelines. Fish keepers must be careful not to inadvertently introduce species through items used in their tanks. Maintaining vigilance and responsible actions can help protect the Columbia River from future invasions.
The study was conducted by Salvador Robb-Chavez, a recent graduate from WSU, and his co-authors Stephen Bollens, Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens, and Timothy Counihan. More information about the study can be found in the International Review of Hydrobiology.
More information:
Salvador B. Robb‐Chavez et al, Broadscale distribution, abundance, and habitat associations of the invasive Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) in the lower Columbia River, USA, International Review of Hydrobiology (2023). DOI: 10.1002/iroh.202202134
Citation:
Asian clams’ spread in Columbia River warns of worse invaders (2023, July 6)
retrieved 6 July 2023
from https://phys.org/news/2023-07-asian-clams-columbia-river-worse.html
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