Zebra mussel larvae found in Minnesota’s Vermilion, Kab, Crane, Namakan

St. Paul — Analysis of water samples collected as part of a long-term monitoring project have shown small but measurable numbers of zebra mussel larvae, called veligers, in Lake Vermilion, Lake Kabetogama, Crane Lake, and Namakan Lake, all in St. Louis County.

Although the Minnesota DNR has not found adult zebra mussels in these lakes, the presence of veligers suggests reproducing zebra mussel populations. For that reason, these lakes will be listed as infested for zebra mussels. Sand Point Lake, connected to Namakan Lake by a wide channel, will also be listed for zebra mussels. The lakes will be monitored for veliger populations and any adult zebra mussels.

It is not unusual for large lakes especially to have confirmed veligers without confirmation of adult zebra mussels. For example, the DNR confirmed zebra mussel veligers in Rainy Lake in St. Louis County in 2021 but has not confirmed adult zebra mussels there.

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Zebra mussels can compete with native species for food and habitat, cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the performance of boat motors, and cause expensive damage to water intake pipes.

Anyone who suspects a new infestation of an aquatic invasive plant or animal should note the exact location, take a photo or keep the specimen, and contact a Minnesota DNR aquatic invasive species specialist.

More information is available on the aquatic invasive species page of the DNR website.