They are believed to have been transported to the Great Lakes via ballast water from a transoceanic vessel. The ballast water, taken on in a freshwater European port was subsequently discharged into Lake St. Clair, near Detroit, where the mussel was discovered in 1988. Since that time, they have spread rapidly to all of the Great Lakes and waterways in many states, as well as Ontario and Quebec. Diving ducks and freshwater drum eat zebra mussels, but will not significantly control them.
Adults can attach to boats or boating equipment that is in the water.
The Great Lakes Sea Grant Network Report on Zebra Mussel Research and Outreach. Also includes smaller libraries addressing the Eurasian ruffe, round goby, tube-nosed goby, spiny water flea and more. North American Range of the Zebra Mussel as of January 1999 Courtesy of the National Aquatic Nuisance Species Clearinghouse. Includes scientifically reviewed articles as well as images from Sea Grant researchers. This comprehensive research report evaluates six products used to control zebra mussels in cottage water intakes.