Learn about native freshwater mussel species in the Charles, their fascinating biology, the challenges they face exacerbated by climate change, and the conservation measures needed to protect these keystone species, in a special free online presentation by Marea Gabriel, Freshwater for the Nature Conservancy. The July 25 Zoom presentation is sponsored by the Charles River Watershed Association. Register at https://www.crwa.org/
Ayla Skorupa will speak on the topic of Freshwater Mussels on Zoom on February 9 at 7 pm. The talk is sponsored by the Athol Bird & Nature Club. Why is brook floater rare? Synthesizing potential threats to a freshwater mussel’s persistance. Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vVEzmvJIS2qR1KUOBeVQ2A After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Ayla’s undergraduate education was in Marine Biology at Roger Williams University. After graduating with a B.Sc. she focused on research with plankton which led to an appointment as a Masters assistant at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks with Dr. Russell Hopcroft. She started studying under Dr. Allison Roy at the Department of Environmental Conservation at UMass, Amherst in Spring 2017.
Her research interests focus on fresh water mussel, Unionidae, conservation. This includes the artificial propagation of rare or endangered species and determining what makes their ideal habitat.
The freshwater pearl mussel, Margaritifera margaritifera, inhabits swift, shallow riffles and runs of clear, cool streams… exactly the kinds of streams that humans love to walk along and wade in. With even minimal coaching, anyone can find them…you just have to know where and how to look. Worldwide, this was one of the most widespread and abundant freshwater mussel species, but one that is now in considerable peril. In this Ware River Nature Club talk on Wednesday, January 24, we’ll get to know this species—its distribution, habitat requirements, life-cycle, conservation, and restoration; “and I hope I can convince you that you should care,” adds presenter Professor John Baker of Clark University. The presentation begins at 7 pm at the Rutland Public Library. For more information email warerivernatureclub@yahoo.com
