Freshwater Mussel 5cm

Freshwater Mussel

When it comes to stocking an aquarium, mussels are probably not going to be on top of the list. However, these amazing bivalves make for a great natural clean-up crew in the aquarium and make for a great oddball, easy-to-care-for addition to the aquarium. Freshwater mussels can be found throughout the globe however this species, in particular, is a true Australian native which just makes it even better. 

The Freshwater Mussel does not have much going for it aesthetically but its uniqueness in the aquarium speaks for itself. These mussels almost look like a stone with two dark brown shells that are hinged together. They usually remain idle in a single place with their shell partially open as they filter feed through the water. A single mussel can filter through more than 30 liters of water per day as it feeds on small bits of organic matter suspended in the water column. Once settled into the aquarium the freshwater mussel can be quite easy to care for however the initial acclimation process is quite crucial as the mussel can be sensitive to drastic changes. They can easily perish through the movement stress and do need a well-established aquarium to ensure there is enough food for them to thrive. 

Breeding mussels in the home aquarium is actually a really difficult task. They have no sexually dimorphic traits and though these mussels can breed all year round, it is near impossible to safely raise any offspring as they are not found easily. These are species that can live up to 40 years in the right conditions so they can be enjoyed for a really long time.

Tank Recommendations for your Freshwater Mussel

The Freshwater Mussel is often a very idle species that do not move around too much although this is very possible. Once they find a suitable spot in the aquarium the mussel will anchor itself with its foot and remain there until it chooses to move again. The minimum aquarium volume to keep a single freshwater mussel is around 40 liters.

The aquarium conditions actually do play an important role in the health of a freshwater mussel. There needs to be good flow in the aquarium to ensure that any food is being properly dispersed in the aquarium. A substrate is also ideal so the mussels can burrow themselves into it for safety. These are also proper cold-water species that prefer a temperature range between 10 - 20 degrees. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The freshwater mussel is a true peaceful species that can be kept with a range of cold-water fish species. Their shells offer them basic protection against potential predators but care should be taken as they can be easily stressed. 

Usually Compatible

Murray River rainbowfish, Australian glass fish, pygmy perch, galaxias, and other peaceful Goldwater fish. 

Sometimes Compatible

Goldfish, peppered corydoras, black widow tetras, or potential coldwater barbs pose the risk of nipping at the siphon that the mussel uses to feed off. 

Rarely Compatible

Any fish species that require a temperature more than 20 degrees or has an easy chance of predating on the mussel like pufferfish. 

Feeding your Freshwater Mussel

In a well-established aquarium, the freshwater mussel should not need any additional feeding however they can be supplemented by a target feed of powdered foods or phytoplankton for optimal health. 

Diet: Detritivore