State regulators Friday renewed their warning against the invasive golden mussel after confirming their presence in Southern California lake.
The invasive species, often resembling edible mussels in dark brown or gold colors, were found at Pyramid Lake in Los Angeles County and Silverwood Lake in San Bernardino County, according to the Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The golden mussel consumes large amounts of aquatic plants on which California’s native species and fish depend. And as they colonize on hard surfaces, they can clog pipes and prevent smooth water flow while damaging watercraft motors and the engines.
The mussel, native to China and Southeast Asia, is also blamed for creating conditions that would increase the growth of toxic algae that has killed sea lions, whales, dolphins and other marine life.
Since the presence was first detected in the Sacramento area in October 2024, golden mussels began spreading south as they often latched onto traveling boats and ships.
In Silverwood Lake, state officials began enforcing new protocols, including the mandatory inspection of vessels for invasive mussels.
To prevent boats and ships from inadvertently spreading golden mussels, drain plugs should be pulled on all vessels before exiting Silverwood Lake, state officials said.
Those who operate recreational boats are encouraged to “thoroughly cleaned, drained and dried” after traveling through Silverwood Lake.
While the invasive species have not been detected in nearby Lake Perris, state officials expect to see golden mussels soon as millions of gallons of water are transferred between Lake Perris and Silverwood Lake.
The golden mussel is not suitable for human consumption due to harmful bacteria and toxicity it contains.
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