Key factors for spread, impact and management of Quaggamussels in the Netherlands

The Quagga mussel (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) is an invasive exotic species that was first identified in the Netherlands in 2006 in the Hollandsch Diep (near Willemstad), a part of former estuary of the rivers Rhine and Meuse. The Quagga mussel is a close relative of the Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) which invaded the Netherlands two centuries ago.
Quagga mussels have been shown to reach very high densities in other regions outside their natural geographical range (e.g. in North America). High mussel densities can lead to ecological and socioeconomic effects (e.g. changes in food webs and water clarity, effects on indigenous species and biofouling of industrial installations).
The Invasive Alien Species Team of the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation) has asked the Radboud University Nijmegen (in cooperation with Waterfauna Hydrobiologisch Adviesbureau) to conduct an investigation to assess the current spread, potential impact and possible options for managing the Quagga mussel in Dutch freshwaters.