The mechanism for dispersal within North America is unknown. Its maximum length is about 35 mm and lives about 3 years. It is known mostly as a biofouler of many electrical and nuclear power plants across the country. As water is drawn from rivers, streams and reservoirs for cooling purposes so are Corbicula larvae. Once inside the plant, this mussel can clog condenser tubes, raw service water pipes, and fire fighting equipment.
Economic problems can result from the decreased efficiency of energy generation.
Warm water effluents at these power plants make a hospitable environment for stabilizing populations. Countries showing introductions. Copyright by D.J. Riebesell. This snail is a tropical freshwater species native to South America. It has been introduced into Florida and is now established in Broward, Dade, Monroe, Palm Beach, and Pinellas counties.