Learn about various aquatic invasives species that are creeping into Missouri, and how paddlers can help stop the spread of these harmful species.
What are aquatic invasive species? They are aggressive, non-native species that are likely to harm the environment, economy, and human health. They reproduce rapidly, so they spread quickly and can be hard to eradicate.
Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha)
Photo: Missouri Department of Conservation
Zebra mussels are small black and white mussels from Asia. They were first brought to the United States through the Great Lakes via ballast water. They create problems by clogging water intake pipes and boat motors, can lead to habitat loss by covering native habitat, and can impact local tourism.
Stop the Spread
If you are visiting a waterway that is known to be contaminated, clean your boat and equipment thoroughly before using the boat or equipment in a different waterbody. Check where zebra mussels are currently found in Missouri. Zebra mussels have not been found in the James River watershed but have been found further downstream in Lake Taneycomo.
Cleaning Options:
- Vinegar - spray vinegar on boat or supplies, then wash off with uncontaminated water away from waterbody. Caution: vinegar is corrosive, so rinse thoroughly.
- Power Washing - rinse off boat with hot water (over 140 degrees Fahrenheit) and air dry in the hot sun for at least 48 hours.
- Air Drying - air dry for 3-5 says in the hot sun. Must dry completely to be effective.
Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata)
Photo: Missouri Department of Conservation
Photo: Missouri Department of Conservation
Hydrilla is an invasive aquatic plant, brought to the United States through the aquarium trade. It is found in multiple counties in Missouri, including Greene County. Hydrilla spreads by tubers being transported from one water body to another. Hydrilla can be harmful to water intake infrastructure, outcompete native plants, impact fish habitats, and even spread avian diseases.
Stop the Spread
No matter where you are paddling, clean your boat and equipment thoroughly before using the boat or equipment in a different waterbody. Check where hydrilla is currently found in Missouri.
Cleaning Protocol:
Remember “Clean, Drain Dry”
Clean - remove all mud and plant debris from boat and equipment.
Drain - drain any standing water in the boat.
Dry - dry boat and equipment thoroughly between uses.
Didymo (Didymosphenia geminata)
Photo: Missouri Department of Conservation
Didymo, also known as “rock snot”, is an alga that flourishes in cool, spring-fed waters, and can create blooms that alter stream ecosystems and compete with other organisms.
Stop the Spread
While didymo has yet to be found in Missouri, water users should stay vigilant to make sure it is not introduced to our state. It is often spread through felt-soled waders but can also cling to other equipment and boats. Learn more about didymo control in Missouri here.
Cleaning Protocol:
Clean any debris off boots or equipment and let dry completely in the sun for 3-5 days. If you must use the equipment sooner, wash with dish detergent, leaving porous materials to soak in a soapy mixture for 20 minutes, then rinse and dry.
