Thomas H. Martin

Western Carolina University, Biology Department, Cullowhee, NC 28723

Evaluation of Growth and Survival of Three Freshwater Mussel Species at Sites Targeted for Population Restoration in a North Carolina River

SEAFWA Journal Volume 9, March 2022

In North Carolina, wavyrayed lampmussels (Lampsilis fasciola) and spike (Eurynia dilatata) currently are state species of special concern, and rainbow mussels (Villosa iris) are state threatened. As a result of extensive conservation and management efforts, recovery of suitable habitat and im- provements in water quality have made mussel restoration a possibility in the Oconaluftee River within lands owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. As part of restoration efforts, we introduced propagated or translocated individuals of these...