# @usgs on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DIzd0RoztFZ
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/69013888-usgs-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/c5054f4e88.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-04-23T21:27:45.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) (@USGS) — https://gondola.cc/USGS

## Caption

Did you know that invasive mussels the size of your thumbnail could disrupt power generation at dams? 

In the Pacific Northwest, where over 60% of people get their energy from hydroelectricity, tiny quagga mussels pose a big threat to infrastructure. 
 
USGS scientists are working with resource managers to understand why invasive zebra and quagga mussels might spread into new habitats, like the Columbia and Snake Rivers of the Northwest. 
 
In September of 2023, invasive quagga mussels were detected for the first time in the Idaho portion of the Snake River, a large tributary of the Columbia River and home to several hydroelectric dams. 
 
The newfound presence of quagga mussels has the potential to harm hydroelectric dams that provide vital energy in the United States. The presence of these invasive mussels can cause extensive economic damage and wreak havoc on mechanical structures. These invasive species also upset the balance of the aquatic ecosystems surrounding the dams. 
 
USGS Western Fisheries Research Center scientists are collaborating with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop guidance for management agencies related to deterring mussel invasions. 
 
Learn more about our work at the USGS Western Fisheries Research Center by clicking the link in today's USGS story. 

📸: Large boulders covered in Dreissenid Mussels in the Detroit River. 

#InvasiveSpecies #invasives #engery #hydroelectricity

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 502
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 6

## Tags

hydroelectricity, invasivespecies, engery, invasives

---
Copyright (c) Gondola