What is the microscopic, free-swimming larval stage of *D. polymorpha* that serves as a vector for long-distance transport?

Answer

Veliger

The larval stage known as the veliger is absolutely critical to understanding the rapid dispersal mechanisms employed by *Dreissena polymorpha*. This stage is characterized as microscopic and free-swimming, allowing it to remain suspended in the water column for weeks. This characteristic makes the veliger the perfect vector for long-distance transport, either passively via natural water currents or actively via human vectors like ballast water or recreational boat hulls. This life history trait, common to many successful invaders but lacking in many native North American freshwater mussels (like those in the Unionidae family), enables massive waterborne dispersal across state lines within a single season, which is a key difference in their invasive success compared to slower-growing native counterparts.

What is the microscopic, free-swimming larval stage of *D. polymorpha* that serves as a vector for long-distance transport?

Related Questions

Where did the Zebra Mussel, *Dreissena polymorpha*, originally originate?What Class classification places *D. polymorpha* within the Mollusca group alongside snails and squid?What is the microscopic, free-swimming larval stage of *D. polymorpha* that serves as a vector for long-distance transport?Which family classification distinguishes *D. polymorpha* taxonomically from native North American freshwater mussels?What specific characteristic does the specific epithet *polymorpha* suggest about *D. polymorpha*?How does the intense filtering capacity of dense *D. polymorpha* mats impact the aquatic food web base?Why is the formal Linnaean system necessary when resource managers discuss *D. polymorpha* infestations?What conditions must be met for *D. polymorpha* adults to survive for extended periods after being removed from the water?Which closely related species is mentioned as sometimes causing common name confusion with *D. polymorpha*?In the binomial nomenclature, what does the genus name *Dreissena* primarily serve to group?
animalclassificationzebra musselmussel