WPBN: Water officials are on high alert because of the potential ecological and environmental hazards posed by the golden mussel, an invasive species in the San Joaquin County Delta. California, sometimes known as the Golden State, is not the native home of the golden mussel, despite its name. Rather, it comes from Southeast Asia.
A number of lake boat ramps and launches have been stopped in the vicinity to stop the spread of this invasive species. The purpose of these restrictions is to stop the mussels from proliferating and harming the Delta’s fragile ecosystem any more.
October saw the discovery of the golden mussel in the San Joaquin Delta’s upstream areas. The invasive species most likely infiltrated the area through an international container that entered the Port of Stockton, according to officials.
There are serious worries about the golden mussel’s possible effects on regional ecosystems because this is the first time it has been discovered anywhere in North America.
Under the San Joaquin Delta’s surface, the golden mussel poses a threat to the wildlife’s delicate equilibrium. This invasive species could change habitats, replace native species for resources, and affect the Delta’s water quality.
As a 20-year veteran of the Port of Stockton, Jeff Wingfield is acutely aware of the ramifications of this discovery. Because of his vast expertise with the port’s operations, he has a solid grasp of the ecological value of the area.
Wingfield understands the value of the Delta’s wildlife and the need to safeguard it against invasive species such as golden mussels.
The circumstance emphasizes the continuous difficulties in controlling invasive species and the significance of strict monitoring and preventative actions to safeguard regional ecosystems.
“I mean the delta is a fragile ecosystem. Really can’t take another blow,” he stated.
According to him, the Delta’s ecosystem is being observed. Although mussels naturally filter water and improve its clarity, this could have a significant effect on larger marine species.
“When the mussels take over, plankton, zooplankton, that is food for native fish,” Gonzalez stated.
The discovery of this invasive mussel has only increased since October. As of right now, it has been discovered in four other counties: Contra Costa, Napa, Merced, and Sacramento.
To halt the spread in its tracks, officials are currently taking preventative measures by blocking a number of boat ramps and launches. Lake Tahoe is on high alert, even upstream.
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What can be done to strengthen the back muscles?
“Clean, drain and dry when you’re going from one water body to another water body,” Gonzalez stated.
The golden mussel eggs are tiny, which makes stopping them even more difficult. If you turn off your boat and leave it for a time, you can return to find them growing inside your motor.
