Featured Discussions - Bluegill - Big Bluegill2024-03-28T13:31:55Zhttp://bigbluegill.ning.com/group/yourpond/forum/topic/list?feed=yes&xn_auth=no&featured=1Freshwater Mussels Questiontag:bigbluegill.ning.com,2011-07-08:2036984:Topic:1798882011-07-08T15:44:51.098ZJChttp://bigbluegill.ning.com/profile/JC
<p>I don't own a pond (yet!) but had a question that I hoped some of the group members could provide input on. I visit a variety of local ponds in my area and each seems to have its own unique dynamics, often based on the plant life and animals that reside there.</p>
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<p>One local pond has EXTREMELY clear water and the fish are very wary. Otherwise, the population seems to be in very good health and the balance of bass, crappie and bluegill appears to be good.</p>
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<p>I noticed…</p>
<p>I don't own a pond (yet!) but had a question that I hoped some of the group members could provide input on. I visit a variety of local ponds in my area and each seems to have its own unique dynamics, often based on the plant life and animals that reside there.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One local pond has EXTREMELY clear water and the fish are very wary. Otherwise, the population seems to be in very good health and the balance of bass, crappie and bluegill appears to be good.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I noticed 2 species of what appear to be clams. I did some research and all the sites listed these as "freshwater mussels". The numbers of the smaller species of mussel is unbelievable. If you look closely, you can see the breathing holes and there are thousands or millions of these little shellfish everywhere in the shallows. I am unsure how deep they might go and if they are present in the middle of the pond.</p>
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<p>I am assuming these mussels are responsible for the clarity as they filter the water in order to feed.</p>
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<p>Has anyone seen mussels in their ponds? If so, what effects do they seem to have on pond dynamics?</p>
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<p>Thanks in advance.</p>