How does Zebra Mussel attachment differ from Quagga Mussel attachment behavior?
Answer
Zebra mussels must firmly attach their flat side down to hard surfaces.
A key differentiator between the two closely related invasive species lies in their preferred substrate and attachment method. Zebra mussels are strongly attached organisms that prefer hard surfaces, positioning themselves with their flatter side firmly against the substrate, often creating dense mats. In contrast, Quagga mussels are more adaptable, possessing a more rounded, dome-like shape, and they do not require such a firm anchor; they are frequently found settling loosely on soft bottom sediments where zebra mussels struggle to establish.
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