Name a common freshwater bivalve species.

The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a well-known freshwater bivalve species, recognized for its ecological and economic significance. This species is native to the lakes of southern Russia and Ukraine but has become widely distributed in North America, particularly after being introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1980s.

Zebra mussels are small, typically 1 to 2 inches in size, and are characterized by their distinctive striped shell. They are filter feeders, meaning they play a role in water purification by removing phytoplankton and other small particles from the water column. However, their introduction has led to various ecological challenges, including the overwhelming of native species and detrimental impacts on local ecosystems.

In contrast, the other mentioned species such as clams, scallops, and oysters are primarily known for their marine habitats. While some clams can live in freshwater, species like Mercenaria mercenaria and Pecten maximus are typically associated with saltwater environments. Crassostrea virginica, the eastern oyster, also thrives in brackish to marine conditions, further distinguishing them from the freshwater-focus of the zebra mussel. Thus, the zebra mussel stands out as a fresh water bivalve