Dreissenid Mussels Impact on Phosphorus Levels in the Laurentian Great Lakes
Miranda Steinmetz
Abstract
Great Lakes organisms depend on the essential nutrient phosphorus. However, excess phosphorus becomes a problem because it can cause increased algal growth. Recently, another emerging problem is the increase of dreissenid mussels, an aquatic invasive species. Dreissenid mussels have become a problem because they affect the food web. Dreissenid mussels also affect phosphorus levels by filtering, excreting, and biodepositing phosphorus. In general, both dreissenid mussels and phosphorus impact the productivity of the lakes. Policy makers and scientists should further study phosphorus levels and dreissenid mussels to better understand interactions of levels and mussels and how such interactions impact lake dynamics.
