CMU's David Zanatta's Research

CMU's David Zanatta's Research

Freshwater mollusks and biodiversity

Dr. Zanatta explains the importance of freshwater mollusks and their role in the Great Lakes ecosystem.

Dr. David Zanatta, Department of Biology CMU

Clarke Historical Library

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mp4 video

English

My research at Central Michigan University studies biodiversity and freshwater mollusks. Freshwater mollusks like mussels and snails are important components of freshwater ecosystems and perform important ecosystem services like filtering water and nutrient cycling. Unfortunately, freshwater mollusks are highly in peril with many species at risk of extinction due to habitat alteration, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels. Protecting and restoring habitat for fish, mollusks and other wildlife will ensure a healthy ecosystem for the future which in turn promotes human health and our economy that is dependent on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.