Research by the Salzburg Water Protection Agency has shown that the invasive quagga mussel has established itself in the Obertrumer See and the Wolfgangsee. Once in the lake, the species is difficult to control.
Originally from the Black Sea region and the Central Asian Aral Sea, the quagga mussel is also becoming increasingly widespread in Austrian lakes. Now it has also been detected in Salzburg. As part of a verification program, Salzburg’s water protection agency found evidence in the Obertrumer See and Lake Wolfgang.
The problem with this alien species is that it takes food from other inhabitants of small lakes and then from fish, thus having a significant impact on the ecosystem. The quagga mussel is spread on water sports equipment and boats if they are not thoroughly cleaned.
The zebra mussel, another invasive species, has also been present in the two affected lakes for some time. If the quagga mussels or their larvae end up in other lakes, there is no way to stop the colonization. Therefore, the State Water Protection Agency calls on people to carefully clean boats, water sports equipment and swimsuits with warm water and let them dry completely in the sun after a stay in Obertrumer See or Wolfgangsee.
In addition to the two affected lakes, Fuschlsee, Mattsee, Grabensee, Wallersee and Zellersee were also investigated through water protection using eDNA analysis. There was no evidence there.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
