He added that marimo products that ship from other countries are likely a lower risk, but people can check for evidence of zebra mussels like shell fragments and report findings to ODFW. The current outbreak is tied specifically to the Betta Buddy marimo product, which Boatner said ships from Ukraine, where zebra mussels are a native species. Marimo balls are also popular house plants. They’ve become popular as aquarium decor that fish use as luxurious couches or fuzzy playthings. Marimo is not moss but actually an algae that grows into velvety, green balls in lakes. Related: Quagga mussels are tiny invaders with big consequences “We were not expecting zebra mussels from moss balls,” Boatner said. Oregon - and much of the region - has largely avoided the zebra mussel mayhem through strict monitoring of watercraft, according to ODFW. Disinfect filters, gravel and other items in the aquarium before disposing of the solution down the sink or toilet. The agency also encourages people to clean aquariums by first removing fish, then letting a diluted bleach solution (one cup of bleach per gallon of water) sit in the aquarium for 10 minutes. What are moss balls The moss balls found to be contaminated with zebra mussels are known as Marimo moss balls and are not composed of moss, but a green algae (Aegagropila linnaei)that is formed into a ball and is 2 to 5 inches in diameter. Don’t lay the algae as fertilizer or flush the balls down the toilet, ODFW says, as the mussels could get into the water system. Those who have can safely dispose of the marimo balls by freezing or boiling them before putting them in the garbage. Zebra and quagga mussel infestations in the Great Lakes region have cost hundreds of millions of dollars annually. They clog storm drains, drinking water systems, irrigation and dams. The USGS warns they can also attach to and incapacitate native mussels. They eat up algae that native species need to survive. Related: What are invasive species and why are they a threat to Oregon?
Zebra mussels in the moss balls have also been found in PetSmart stores.
The agency is urging pet stores to remove the Betta Buddy Marimo Ball from shelves immediately. The Zebra mussel was found attached inside a Betta Buddy brand Marimo moss ball.
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