wildlife

Photo by Miki Jourdan

From DOEE:

“The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) joins federal and state fish and wildlife agencies in banning the sale–and ordering the proper disposal of–live “moss ball” aquarium plants, which may be infested with invasive zebra mussels. The moss balls are often sold under names such as “Betta Buddy Marimo Balls” or “Mini Marimo Moss Balls” and may be included with the purchase of betta fish.

The zebra mussel is a small, freshwater, bivalve species of mollusk native to Eurasia. Classified as an aquatic invasive species, zebra mussels are impossible to eradicate once a colony is established, thus causing irreparable damage to habitats and ecosystems critical to the survival of native species.

Consumers are not to purchase aquarium moss balls and are required to safely dispose of recently purchased moss balls using biological guidelines and industry-accepted best management practices.

DESTROY, DISPOSE, DRAIN

To ensure all life stages of this invasive species are destroyed, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service advises anyone who has recently purchased moss balls to follow these guidelines (ensuring that your chosen disposal method meets local state laws and animal welfare regulations).

DESTROY in one of three ways: (more…)