Dreissena polymorpha in Spain
Since the first signs of the presence of the zebra mussel in August 2001 were detected in the lower Ebro, the expansion has been constant and today, fifteen years later, we can say that most of the Watersheds, except for the moment, Duero and Sil, are affected to a greater or lesser extent.
We consider that in a period of 5 years D.p. Will have conquered the entire hydrological system of the country. If we add to this species other invading bivalves (fluminea-Asian clam curvilinear), which have already been introduced in the main rivers, the situation becomes complex and difficult to solve. The damage produced, both environmental and economic, are difficult to evaluate, since there is no accurate data. The European Commission has estimated losses of all the species considered exotic and invasive in about 12 billion euros. If we consider that the dreissena polymorpha, constitutes one of the most aggressive and with greater capacity of expansion, we can give us an idea of the scope of the problem. |
Main sectors affectedWe must establish two differentiated parameters, although closely linked in origin: ecological and economic damages.
On the first, we can assure that many native species have disappeared or are about to disappear. These represent a serious imbalance for biotic factors. On the economic side, we highlight the impact on industries that use water as an essential element for their normal operation (hydroelectric power companies, nuclear plants, etc.). Irrigation systems are another of the most affected sectors. Although not mentioned, drinking water networks are another of the important threatened districts. |
Location
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The distribution on the map has been prepared by the Ecowater Technologie team, based on its own research and with the collaboration of public and private organizations. The map is updated every three months. The last one was done in October. We are also drawing up the risk maps that we will place soon.
AFFECTED SYSTEMS |