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Freshwater Mussels
North America has been exclusively blessed with a wide variety of freshwater mussel species, the envy of many foreign shell collectors. Of the 300 American species, 50 are found in Texas. They inhabit our streams, rivers, and lakes, filtering toxins from the water and providing food for many species of aquatic organisms. Their utilitarian shells are not very pretty, but their rough lines and unique shapes give them a sort of rugged attraction that enchants collectors world-over. They truly are a Texas treasure.
Unfortunately, their existence on this planet is extremely volatile due to their sensitivity to environmental changes. Pollution, dam building, and competition from invasive species have played major roles in destabilizing native mussel populations. As much as 10% of all freshwater mussel species are extinct; of those that remain, 70% are considered under threat by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Three-horn Wartyback, Obliquaria reflexa
We do not yet have an adequate number of mussel specimens to display.
