Methods and systems for controlling invasive mussel species

Abstract

Methods and systems for killing, preventing, or inhibiting the growth and spread of invasive Dreissenid mussel species, such as Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and Quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) are provided herein. The treatment methods and systems utilize a nonnative source of chlorophyll introduced to a body of water to increase the chlorophyll concentrations in bodies of water. The increased chlorophyll concentration effectively kills or prevents the spreading of the invasive mussel species in the bodies of water. The methods and systems of the present invention advantageously avoid the use of heavy metals or pesticides that may pose health risks to humans. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention can use treatment doses that are nonharmful to other aquatic life.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.