The Danger of Zebra Mussels
Zebra mussels, Dreissena polymorpha, are tiny, ranging from approximately 1/64th of an inch (0.5 mm) to 2 inches (50.80 mm), bivalve mollusks that inhabit fresh to brackish or even estuarine waters. Each mollusk is patterned with dark and light stripes on the small shell, which gives this non-native species its name. Zebra mussels are native to Eastern Europe, and it is believed that the planktonic larvae were transported in cargo-ship ballast water to the Great Lakes Region in the mid-to-late 1980’s where they have become an invincible problem to industry and the native species of the area.
Since zebra mussels are filter feeders, they tend to be stationery, using thin and strong threads (called byssal threads) to adhere to many different surfaces. The planktonic larva, known as a veliger, is the free floating stage of the lifecycle. This dispersal mechanism permits the zebra mussel to locate and attach to virtually anything and quickly colonize, growing into layers, often inches thick. They attach themselves to any hard surface which includes: water intake pipes, buoys, and channel markers. They even attach to native freshwater mussels, clams, and crayfish, limiting their ability to move and often smothering them.
At this time, there are relatively few ways to control zebra mussels and/or prevent them from traveling further into the interior of the United States...
To avoid accidental introduction of zebra mussels to significant Maryland waters, any live bait used in Prettyboy, Loch Raven, Tridelphia or Liberty reservoirs must be from zebra-mussel-free sources. Inquire if your bait dealer can confirm zebra-mussel-free certification before purchasing live bait for these locations... Regulatory Classification: It is a prohibited invasive species (DNR), which means import, possession, transport, and introduction into the wild is prohibited. Refer to the web-site above for more info. |
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Feb. Events Around Town:
January 4th - March 3rd
IMAX Film Festival
7 films will be shown throughout the festival. No need to purchase a separate entry ticket to the Science Center during the festival. $
Jan 22 - Oct 1
Breakfast with the Animals Series
Maryland Zoo
This VIP experience lets guests get up close and personal with their favorite animals and the keepers who care for them. www.marylandzoo.org
February
Black History Month 2011
Reginald F. Lewis Museum
Sunday, Feb 6th
Great Baltimore Fire Coach Tour
1:00 - 4:15 pm, $
This historic fire destroyed 140 acres of downtown Baltimore in less than thirty hours. Join Historian Wayne Schaumburg as he provides a guided tour of the downtown area destroyed by the fire.
Sunday, Feb 13th
Join BMC & Canton Club for
Valentine's Brunch!
lululemon athletica
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Join the cast & crew from BMC and Canton Club to socialize, eat, drink and shop! Light refreshments and drinks.
1724 Aliceanna St in Fells Pt.
Sunday, Feb 13th
A Night of Romance
Baltimore Museum of Art, $
Treat your sweetheart to a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day experience! Gaze upon the BMA’s most romantic works of art with a guided tour while sipping champagne and nibbling on sweet and savory treats. Guitarist Kevin Clark provides live jazz during this special evening. www.artbma.org
Feb 18th - 20th
Max's Annual Belgian Beer Fest
11:00 am - 2:00 am each day
Featuring over 120 Authentic Belgian beers on draft, over 175 Authentic Belgian beers in Bottles and a full Belgian Inspired Food Menu
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February 3rd, 2011
RESERVE YOUR SLIP NOW! 
VS. 
