Ecologically, the water-filtering of these organisms is very important in riverine systems. Winged mapleleaf mussels are used as a food source by several predators. They are favored by muskrats, but other predators include mink, raccoons, fish, turtles, and waterbirds. Habitat Little is known about the specific habitat requirements of the winged mapleleaf mussel. The substrate in which the young land is a key element of a mussel's world.
Water is the second key element in a mussel's world.
Optimal water depth for the winged mapleleaf is not known, although presently they exist at water levels of about one meter. Water temperature affects the behavior and health of mussels. Waters that are too hot or too cold may be lethal. Mussels handle the extremes of Wisconsin winters by remaining in the substrate and passing the winter in an inactive state. Mussel existence is also determined in part by the pH level of the water.