New Zealand Mud Snail
(Potamopyrgus antipodarum)
The Mud Snail is a tiny snail native to New Zealand and discovered in the United States in the Snake River, Idaho in the 1980's. They have since spread to other rivers throughout the western USA. These snails have a wide range of habitat tolerances: rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and estuaries. Mud snails have no known predators or parasites in the USA.
Mud snails can rapidly reach densities greater than 100,000/m² in suitable habitat. Their invasion has generated concern about the effects it may have on native species, fisheries, and aquatic ecosystems. The spread of mud snails into new systems is considered to be primarily human caused.
How should I clean my gear? The best practices for all invasive species, including mud snails are to:
1) Remove any plants,dirt or organisms from your gear before you leave the body of water
2) Thoroughly rinse your gear with clean water
3) Thoroughly dry your gear
For mud snails, brush your gear off after it has dried to remove any clinging snails, pay special attention to seams, boot tongue,laces and inserts.
More Information:
Chemical Gear Treatment Study Results