Invasive mussels in aquarium products

Idaho State Department of Agriculture officials announced Wednesday the finding of invasive mussels in aquarium products.

CBS2 reports the Department found live, viable zebra mussels in Marimo moss balls, which are commonly sold to people who have aquariums.

Zebra mussels have been the target of a coordinated, nationwide removal effort. The invasive species establish themselves in lakes, rivers, canals, and water systems where they cause significant ecological damage as well as damage to irrigation and water distribution systems.

Quagga and zebra mussels can clog pipes and mechanical systems of industrial plants, utilities, locks, and dams. If zebra mussels were to infest Idaho’s waters, it could cost the state nearly $100 million annually in damage and lost revenue.

If you find the mussels in your aquarium or products, do not dump the tank water or dispose of moss balls in natural water bodies.

Aquarium owners can safely dispose of the moss ball(s) by one of two methods:

Remove the moss ball(s) and place in a plastic bag. Put the bag in a freezer and leave for at least 24 hours. After that, the moss ball(s) can be disposed of in the trash.
Place moss ball(s) in boiling water for at least one full minute. After that, the moss ball(s) can be disposed of in the trash.
For moss balls that have already been in an aquarium:

Collect fish and plants and place them in another container. Dispose of the water in a sink or toilet (municipal wastewater is treated to kill pathogens, and septic tanks are fully self-contained underground).
Carefully scrub the tank, accessories, rocks, and decorations with a strong solution of chlorine bleach/water. Another option (if you don’t want to use chlorine bleach) is to carefully use water that is 140 degrees to flush and coat all the tank and accessory surfaces. ISDA recommends another water change within a week and to continue to monitor the tank for any unusual aquatic growth.
For very large aquariums that you may not be able to completely dewater/decontaminate, dispose of the moss ball(s) as above. It is recommended that you do conduct frequent water changes and continue to monitor the tank for any unusual aquatic growth.