08/31/2026
Check out this free opportunity to learn more about freshwater mussels and the work being done in the West Branch of the Susquehanna.
Did you know that mussels have beards? The "beard" is actually made up of strong fibers called byssal threads that anchor the mussels so they don't wash away! Want to learn more about mussels?
Join Jordan Allison, Fisheries Biologist with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, during the September Learn at Lunchtime program when he discusses freshwater mussel diversity, life history, and ecology, and the ongoing species recovery efforts in the West Branch Susquehanna River.
Freshwater mussels are considered keystone species in aquatic communities around the world. They provide ecosystem services, including water filtration and streambed stabilization, which help maintain the health of our streams, rivers, and lakes. Unfortunately, we are at risk of losing this vital resource, as 74% of mussel species in North America are recognized as endangered, threatened, or of special concern.
Sign up for the September Learn at Lunchtime program - https://statemuseumpa.org/events/virtual-mussels/
