Invertebrate Name: Freshwater Green Strip (Pink/White) Mussels (Pilsbryoconcha exilis)

Origin: Asia

Description: These invertebrates are relatively new to the hobby and there are not many hobbyists that have written detailed information about how to keep freshwater Mussels in aquariums. Their growth size ranges and ours are 6cm length wise and can grow bigger with time. Their average lifespan ranges from 3-5 years and there are some that can live for 50 – 100 years and we don’t have any of these ones. They mostly feed on detritus as well as micro organisms such as daphnia and including phytoplankton. The ones we have at Shrimp Diaries range in color from green, pink and white. An interesting fact to also note is that they also produce pearls if they are allowed to live and grow long enough.

Water Parameters:  Although some of these species can tolerate different water conditions it is advisable to ensure the water is clean as build up of toxic nutrients might be fatal. The water parameters for freshwater Green Strip Mussels range from 20°C – 27 °C with a pH of 69.0-7.0. The most important thing is regular water changes to avoid any unnecessary deaths. They have a preference for strong water current something that can be achieved by using regular waters pumps and submersible filters and pumps.

Sexing: Distinct sexual organs.

Breeding: Their breeding method is like none other, but then again all species have a unique breeding mechanism.  The lifecycle of Mussels is like that of moths. Initially the eggs develop inside the female Mussel. These eggs are called larva or glochidia. Thereafter the eggs go through metamorphosis in order to develop into a freshwater mussel. These eggs become cyst and usually this takes place on a host mostly fish. In order for this to happen the female Mussel usually goes to great lengths to attract a potential host. This involves the female Mussel waving her mantle that looks like fish food and this attracts the fish to approach her. When fish are close enough to reach the mantle they instead end up with the cyst on their body and become the host until the cyst fall off and become small Mussels. The cyst can be attached to the host from a few days to months.

Compatibility: They are compatible with any freshwater invertebrates.