Some of the control strategies discussed involve the use of molluscicides (chemicals used to kill molluscs) to control zebra mussel adults and veliger larvae. There should always be concern when using any chemical control agent, especially when the molluscicide will be released into a waterway following the treatment program. For further information on the environmental impacts of chemical control see the Chemical Control and the Effects of Molluscicides section.
Because zebra mussels are widespread and generally remain at the same location for months to years, they accumulate low concentrations of many contaminants. Because of this, they have been proposed as freshwater environmental biomonitors, especially for large rivers and in particular, for long-term monitoring near possible contaminant sources. For information on the bioaccumulation of contaminants or using the zebra mussel as an indicator for toxicity levels, see the Bioaccumulation section.
The Zebra Mussel Research Program (ZMRP) at the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Vicksburg, MS was established in response to Public Law 101-646. This law requires a program of research and technology for the environmentally sound control of zebra mussels. The ZMRP work unit on contaminants and toxicity-related issues is concerned with questions related to disposal and the potential toxicity of zebra mussel control chemicals. The information provided in this section is taken primarily from technical notes produced by ERDC. Any additional sources of information are noted.