Golden Mussels Threaten California's Waterways and Ecosystem

The invasive species, recently discovered in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, poses risks to water infrastructure and biodiversity.

Golden mussels, native to China and Southeast Asia, have been found in North America for the first time, specifically in California's Port of Stockton and San Luis Reservoir.
The mussels can clog water infrastructure by encrusting pipelines and intake screens, potentially increasing costs for water delivery systems across the state.
These filter-feeding mussels threaten the ecological balance by consuming plankton, which is crucial for native fish species, including endangered ones.
Efforts to contain the spread include mandatory inspections of boats leaving affected areas and increased monitoring by state agencies.
Critics argue that the invasion could have been prevented with stricter ballast water regulations, highlighting a need for more robust environmental protections.