At approximately what minimum water temperature does Zebra Mussel reproduction typically begin?
Answer
Above 60 degrees Fahrenheit (about 15.5 degrees Celsius)
The reproductive cycle of zebra mussels is significantly influenced by water temperature. Spawning activity initiates when the water warms beyond a certain threshold, specifically when it gets above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, equating to approximately 15.5 degrees Celsius. The reproductive output then intensifies, often peaking when temperatures ascend into the mid-70s Fahrenheit range. This temperature dependence means that warmer summer conditions favor massive population explosions due to high egg production rates, often reaching one million eggs per female annually under ideal circumstances.
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