Zebra Mussels are small shellfish shaped like
marine mussels. They are striped with varying patterns of dark and
pale bands., hence the zebra name. They attach themselves to hard
surfaces using special anchoring threads such as wood, plastic,
stones etc. They live in fresh water and the upper reaches of
tidal estuaries, but cannot live in seawater. They usually grow to
15 - 25mm but can attain 50mm ( 2 inches ).
The river Shannon together with its lakes and
tributaries, is an important part of Ireland's wonderful natural
heritage. Those of us who live and work in the catchment of the river
have a special duty to protect water quality. Clean water is essential
for all life - plants, animals and of course ourselves. It is up to us
all all to do what we can to preserve the Shannon for future
generations. Farmers have a vital role to play in this community effort.
Spraying pesticides can have an adverse impact on water
quality. All operations of spraying equipment should follow the Teagasc
Voluntary Code of Good Practice.
The river Shannon together with its lakes and
tributaries, is an important part of Ireland's wonderful natural
heritage. Those of us who live and work in the catchment of the river
have a special duty to protect water quality. Clean water is essential
for all life - plants, animals and of course ourselves. It is up to us
all all to do what we can to preserve the Shannon for future
generations.
The main threat to the Shannon comes from an increase in
the amount of nutrients, including phosphates being released into the
water. An excess of nutients in the water leads to increased algal
growth, which often results in algal blooms in summertime. The algae in
turn uses up oxygen in the water reducing its capacity to support fish
life. These nutrients come from a number of sources including
agricultural, industrial and domestic.
