Most Evil Mollusk Ever

Study: Zebra Mussels Promote Algae Growth A new study has found that the presence of zebra mussels in inland lakes promotes the growth of a blue-green algae that produces a toxin harmful to people and animals. The study, conducted by researchers from Michigan State University's Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, found that lakes infested with zebra mussels have, on average, levels of a blue-green algae called Microcystis three times higher than lakes without the mussels. The infested lakes also have about twice the level of microcystins — poisons produced by the algae.