Boundary Invasive Species Society
New Zealand mudsnail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum)
There is no know establishment of New Zealand mudsnails in the Boundary. However this species had been found on Vancouver Island so it is in our province.
Identification:
New Zealand mudsnails range in size from a grain of sand to 6 mm long. They have 5 or 6 whorls. They range in colour from grey to dark brown. They can reach extremely high densities, up to 300,000 per square meter have been recorded. It only takes one female to start a colony. They are self-reproducing and bear live, well developed clones.
Impacts:
New Zealand mudsnails would have the biggest impact on anglers. They alter aquatic habitats and food webs by eating algae and competing with native bottom-dwelling organisms. By altering the ecosystem they reduce native trout and other recreational fisheries.
Prevention:
New Zealand mudsnails spread mainly attached to waders, fishing gear, and bait. They can survive for days out of water so it is super important to Clean Drain Dry.