What is identified as the number one vector for spreading zebra mussels between geographically separate lakes?
Answer
Recreational boating equipment
While large shipping vessels were responsible for the initial continental introduction, the continuing spread between distinct, non-connected bodies of water, such as one isolated mountain lake to another, is overwhelmingly attributed to human recreational activity. Specifically, recreational boating is cited as the primary vector. Adult mussels, their hard-shelled young, or microscopic larvae can easily adhere to or be carried on boat hulls, trailers, anchors, or fishing gear. Launching this contaminated equipment into a clean water body initiates a new infestation cycle.
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