That’s about the chances a Western pearlshell mussel larvae or
glochidia has of surviving to become a free living mussel. The
Western pearlshell has several strategies which may help it overcome these huge
odds though. First of all, they can live
well over 100 years and are among the longest lived animal species on the
planet. Second, they release millions of
eggs each year they reproduce (3 to 4 million).
Third, they are capable of reproducing throughout their lives. Last but by far, not least, in sparse
populations, female Western pearlshell mussels may become hermaphroditic and
self-fertilize. More on these amazing
creatures soon.
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| Western Pearlshell mussels |
Submitted by Donna Allard
