In which substrate condition are Zebra Mussels notably absent, preferring Quaggas instead?
Answer
Soft-bottomed areas
Zebra mussels are obligate attached organisms, meaning they must secure themselves firmly to hard surfaces such as rocks or wood, and they are specifically noted as being absent from areas characterized by soft bottoms. This ecological limitation creates an opportunity for the related quagga mussel, which is more physically adaptable. Quaggas do not rely on firm attachment and can settle directly onto soft lake sediments or bottom deposits, allowing them to colonize deeper environments and soft substrates where the classic zebra mussel strategy of attachment fails.
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