Mysterious mussel freezing: dead mussels at Buchenhofer reservoir!

Mysterious mussel freezing: dead mussels at Buchenhofer reservoir!

At the Buchenhofer reservoir, the situation is heading: Joachim Golla, an attentive observer from Dingsleben, has made an alarming discovery there. He found numerous dead or dying fresh water mussels on the bank. The stinging smell of decay fulfills the air and makes it clear that something is wrong here. Golla immediately reported the incident to the responsible authorities in the Hildburghausen district office, which are now planning a review on site to clarify the exact situation. Such incidents are not only sad, they also raise questions about the condition of our waters.

fresh water mussels are of great importance for our ecosystems. They filter small algae from the water and thus ensure improved water quality. But the current situation on the reservoir seems to be at risk due to the spread of the invasive quagga shell. This type of mussel, which originally comes from the black Sea room, spreads uncontrollably in many waters and already has dramatic effects on the native fresh water mussels. According to an article from the IGB [Nadja Neumann reports that] (https://www.igb-berlin.de/news/suess water pussels-und-die-invasive-quagga mussel) this also led to the Oder Catastrophe 2022, in which tons of mussels died. The empty shells now line the banks of the Oder, which gives a worrying picture.

The Quagga mussel and its effects

The invasive quagga shell not only has negative effects on the mussels themselves, but also on the entire aquatic ecosystem. These small pests reduce the plankton, which is decisive for many types of fish as a food basis, and thus question the diet of many lakes and rivers. The associated high costs to combat this type also burden the municipalities and associations that have to take care of water care.

In addition, invasive types such as the Quagga shell can be transported between water unnoticed, for example with boats or water sports equipment. The Federal Office for the Environment therefore recommends to take preventive measures and to educate affected actors about the problem. In cooperation with various cantonal authorities, information videos were created that show simple rules to avoid the distribution of invasive species.

The situation at Buchenhofer reservoir should encourage us all to think. Everyone is required to contribute their part to protect our waters. It is time to show a good hand to protect domestic flora and fauna and to minimize the effects of invasive species. It is to be hoped that the review of the authorities will soon bring clarity about the causes of this incident and that corresponding measures will be taken to preserve the mussels and the entire ecosystem.