Zebra mussels have been detected in a variety of moss / algal ball products for aquariums or water gardens sold in British Columbia and online. These products, which are often sold as “Marimo Moss Balls”, are species of green algae typically purchased for aquariums to improve water quality.
This past weekend, BC conservation officers found zebra mussels in moss balls at multiple aquarium supply stores, including ones in the Lower Mainland.
These invasive mussels pose a major threat if released into a B.C. waterway. The tiny mussels can wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems, salmon populations, hydro power stations and other facilities because they multiply rapidly and are extremely difficult to eradicate. Learn more about Zebra Mussels here.
If you have moss balls, please check them for mussels. Anyone who finds zebra mussels should immediately call the Report All Poachers and Polluters hotline at 1-877-952-7277 to report their find.
If you suspect you have contaminated moss balls, they can be safely disposed of by:
Step 1: Treat the moss / algal balls:
- place into a plastic bag, seal and freeze (preferably in a deep freezer) for at least 24 hours, or
- place in boiling water for at least 1 minute and then let cool.
Step 2: Dispose of moss / algal balls:
- place it and any of its packaging in a sealed plastic bag and dispose in your household garbage
To prevent zebra mussels from getting into our water bodies, do not dispose of the moss/algal ball or any aquarium/water-garden contents (e.g., substrate, plants etc.):
- by flushing down the toilet
- by putting down drain
- in the compost
Step 3: Treat aquarium contents and water
After moss balls have been removed from an aquarium, do not dispose of untreated water down the drain or into any residential water system or waterway.
More information on how to treat aquarium contents and water is available at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/invasive-mussels/moss-balls-disposal
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