Zebra mussels found in aquarium product

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has announced non-living zebra mussels have been found in a Marimo moss ball product being sold in the state.

Non-living zebra mussels were found in moss balls shipped to an aquarium product retailer in Boise. All of the product was voluntarily surrendered to ISDA for disposal.  

“Store managers and staff throughout the state have been cooperative throughout this important process,” said Nic Zurfluh, ISDA Invasive Species Bureau Chief. “Everyone has a part to play in protecting our state from invasive species. We now rely on the public to do their part in inspecting aquariums for the invasive mussels.” 

All aquarium owners should carefully examine their own material for invasive species and follow steps to safely dispose of contaminated material. ISDA officials warned against dumping aquarium tank water or disposing of moss balls in natural waterbodies or down drains. 

ISDA staff will continue inspections at local pet and aquarium stores to ensure the product being sold is clean. ISDA is working to further identify retail distribution, collect affected products, and ensure proper disposal.  

Zebra mussels are a threat to Idaho and can quickly spread and clog pipes that deliver water for drinking, energy, agriculture, recreation, and a variety of other uses. These mussels can also negatively affect fish populations and wildlife habitat. 

The detection in Idaho comes after zebra mussels were detected in Washington state aquarium product Aug. 5. 

Information: invasivespecies.idaho.gov/moss