Invasive Species
Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) cause chaos globally by settling outside their natural habitats. These unwanted invaders usually sneak into wider areas through human actions, with aquatic species in rivers and lakes left vulnerable. Loughs Agency is on a mission to protect our waterways from these unwelcome guests to ensure that native species continue to thrive.
Asian Clam
Status: Established
Habitat: Freshwater
Threat: Competes with native species, biofouling
Description
yellowish/brown ‘globular’ shell
distinctive rounded, concentric, evenly spaced ridges on the shell surface
occasional flakes leaving white patches
shells normally 20–25mm long.
Information
establishes itself quickly, highly invasive
filter feeder which adapts to a variety of environments
displaces native freshwater pearl mussel.
Consequence
clogs gravel beds in rivers, hindering their use by spawning salmon
clogs drains and pipes creating cost issues
outcompetes aquatic bottom-living species
interferes with sand and gravel extraction.
If you come across an invasive species you can record it on the iRecord App, CEDaR or iNaturalist. The information will be used by Invasive Species NI to inform landowners of their legal obligation to manage invasive species on their property.