Meet the Yellow Lampmussel

The Yellow Lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) is one of the 14 native Maryland freshwater mussel species that are endangered, threatened, or rare. Just like oysters, mussels filter large quantities of water and remove harmful bacteria, algae, and heavy metals— significantly contributing to the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. Freshwater mussels are also an important source of food for fish, raccoons, muskrats, and others. Primarily found in clean, flowing waters with sandy or gravelly bottoms, this keystone species is an important indicator of water quality. Like other mussels in the Lampsilis family, the yellow lampmussel relies on impressive mimicry to reproduce. Once her eggs have been fertilized, the female mussel skillfully manipulates the flaps of her mantle, creating a remarkably authentic fish-shaped lure. She’ll wiggle this fish decoy around to attract hungry host fish (such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch). Once they chomp down on the lure, the fish gets a face full of mussel larvae, which attach to the fish’s gills where they continue to develop and eventually drop to the riverbed. Sadly, these fascinating species are severely threatened by habitat degradation, dam construction, runoff, pollution, and loss of host fish. 

Some steps you can take to help freshwater mussels include:

• Supporting conservation initiatives (like The Potomac Riverkeeper Network’s 50 Million Mussel Project You can even Adopt a Mussel! )

• Reducing pollution and herbicide use

• Plant trees to bind the soil and prevent excess sediment in waterways

Learn more about the Yellow Lampmussel here: https://www.chesapeakebay.net/discover/field-guide/entry/yellow-lampmussel