How do mussels reproduce? Freshwater mussels have an unusual and complex life cycle, which includes a brief, obligatory stage as a parasite on a fish. During the breeding season, females …

The female freshwater mussel carries the fertilized eggs in the gills until they develop into a parasitic stage called glochidia. Female freshwater mussels then release the glochidia into the …

The female mussels have evolved various strategies to get fish to get close enough to release their larvae into the gills of the fish. These include elaborate extension of the female mussel’s …

Dec 10, 2025 · Mussels employ a fascinating and complex reproductive strategy that often involves a free-swimming larval stage and, in some species, a period of parasitic attachment …

Jennifer Kurth, Iowa DNR Biologist, explains this unique process and shows just a few of the different mussel species found in one Iowa river. Mussel reproduction videos used courtesy of …

Jul 29, 2025 · To reproduce, freshwater mussels rely on fish to carry their young into new areas and disperse them when they are old enough. By conserving suitable fish habitat, it also …

Each year fresh water mussels reproduce as males release sperm into the water column. As the sperm passively drift with the water currents, it may enter females as they are siphoning and …

Each species of mussel uses a different strategy to attract the fish that it needs to ensure its offspring survive. Jennifer Kurth, Iowa DNR Biologist, explains this unique process and shows …

Jun 19, 2024 · Discover the key stages and the complete life cycle of mussels in our detailed guide. Learn all about their natural reproduction and aquaculture rearing methods.

Aug 20, 2023 · Almost all species of freshwater mussels (unlike marine mussels) require fish hosts as juveniles. The glochidia (= baby mussels) attach primarily to the gills, but also the fins …