Kentucky Lake Mussels
 There’s an aquatic army living at the bottom of Kentucky Lake that is essential to the natural environment. Wild Side Guide Cassandra Finch looks at the importance of freshwater mussels in Tennessee. Where there was once 130 thriving species of mussels in Tennessee’s lakes and streams, now there are only 29! To help protect this valuable creature, TWRA biologists dive to the muddy bottom to track size and population levels of the mussels.
Cassandra tells viewers that the freshwater mussel is like the oil filter in your car. It continually pumps water, taking dirt out of the lake. Mussels get their energy and nutrients from bacteria. The result is a clean lake that fish, plants and people can enjoy! Another benefit of freshwater mussels is the world-class pearls they produce.
If you would like more information about mussels in Tennessee, or the pearls they produce, the Frank H. McClung Museum at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a terrific resource!
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