Invasive Zebra Mussel larvae found in the Colorado River

SALT LAKE CITY — Officials are warning neighboring states after they found two microscopic zebra mussel larvae in the Colorado River.

Although zebra mussels are an invasive species, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Lt. Bruce Johnson said there is a silver lining to finding the larvae, also known as veligers. 

“The veliger, [in] that microscopic form, [is] a lot more susceptible to environmental conditions,” he said. “It’s more fragile. It has a harder time surviving in … faster, more turbulent (and) more rapid waters.”

Johnson said the zebra mussels will likely have a hard time finding a place to “settle” and “attach” in a large river like the Colorado. It will also be difficult for them to reproduce.

Zebra mussels are a close cousin to quagga mussels, which have been found in Lake Powell. Both species can destroy aquatic habitats and damage boat and dam machinery. 

Authorities in Colorado have been working to address the invasive species, according to Johnson.

The discovery of two zebra mussel larvae in the Colorado River has wildlife officials reminding everyone to clean, drain, and dry every watercraft after being on the water.

“And it doesn’t matter if it’s a river (or) a lake. It doesn’t matter what kind of craft you are utilizing and operating,” he said.

Don Brinkerhoff is a reporter and producer for KSL NewsRadio.

Related: Owners of non-motorized watercraft in Utah required to train on quagga mussel prevention

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