Invasive zebra mussels detected in aquarium moss balls
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging Wisconsinites to immediately remove and properly dispose of commercially purchased “moss balls” for aquariums after invasive zebra mussels were discovered inside and on some of these products in Wisconsin and across the United States. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, zebra mussels are regarded as one of the most destructive invasive species in North America.
The invasive zebra mussels found in “moss balls” are designed for aquarium use and sold under names including “Betta Buddy Marimo Balls” and “Marimo Moss Ball Plant Grab N Go.”
“We are asking all pet stores and related retailers to please inspect and remove all these products from shelves,” said Amy Kretlow, DNR aquatic invasive species monitoring specialist. “We are also asking any consumers who may have bought any moss ball products in the past month to please inspect and dispose of them properly. Do not flush moss balls or contaminated water down toilets or drains.”
Zebra mussels are an aquatic invasive species that can cause environmental and economic harm. These small, fingernail-sized mollusks native to the Caspian Sea region of Asia have three life stages –– larval, juvenile and adult. In the larval stage, the mussels are microscopic and live freely in the water, allowing them to be easily transported. If released, these larvae can cause great harm to waterbodies. Adult zebra mussels can stay alive for several days outside of water and are common hitchhikers on boats, fishing equipment and aquarium plants.
Despite their small size, zebra mussels clog pipelines used for water filtration, render beaches unusable and damage boats. They also negatively impact aquatic ecosystems by harming native organisms.
The DNR is working with other states to determine where these products are being sold. Two major pet store chains, Petco and PetSmart, took quick action and removed the products from store shelves once notified. For more information regarding moss ball product recalls, visit Petco.com and petsmartcorporate.com.
Wisconsin and other states will continue monitoring the situation to ensure a safe product is made available to the public.
Destroy, dispose, drain
Do not dispose of the moss balls in drains, waterways or gardens. Moss balls must be destroyed and disposed of in a sealed container in the trash.
When following any of the methods listed below, ensure that the disposal method you choose is in compliance with your local state laws and animal welfare regulations.
Destroy in one of three ways: _ Freeze –– Place the moss ball into a sealable plastic bag and freeze for at least 24 hours.
_ Boil –– Place the moss ball in boiling water for
