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STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THREE RARE FRESHWATER MUSSEL SPECIES IN LOUISIANA
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STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THREE RARE FRESHWATER MUSSEL SPECIES IN LOUISIANA
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Journal Article
STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THREE RARE FRESHWATER MUSSEL SPECIES IN LOUISIANA
2025
Overview
Freshwater mussels are one of the most endangered faunal groups in North America, declining in terms of both diversity and abundance. Many states, including Louisiana, have implemented various studies and protections to document remaining mussel resources, and defend current populations. Louisiana currently has approximately 65 mussel species. However, numerous species have experienced significant declines in both abundance and distribution and the status of many is unknown. We investigated the current distribution and status of three rare mussel species in Louisiana, Pleurobema sintoxia (rubrum), Obovoaria unicolor, and Strophitus radiatus (target species). We surveyed for mussels at four sites historically known to harbor each species (12 sites), and four new sites with similar habitat (12 sites). We then compared our survey results to historical data to determine the health and status of each species. We recorded 4,799 live mussels of 33 species in timed searches. The assemblage was dominated by Plectomerus dombeyanus, Amblema plicata, Cyclonaias pustulosa, and Megalonaias nervosa which made up > 60% of mussels. A total of 24 target species were located, consisting of 15 P sintoxia (rubrum), from two sites, and nine S. radiatus from three sites. No O. unicolor were located. Target species were found almost exclusively at historical sites and were absent from nearly all sites. Conversely, length frequencies indicated a healthy age class, and that recruitment is occurring for both species. Despite potential loses, many of Louisiana's waterbodies retain a rich mussel fauna, including the continued presence and recruitment of several rare species. Unfortunately, these rare species appear to be surviving only in relatively low abundances, within limited ranges, though additional survey efforts across the state are needed.
