Aquarium Plants From NC Pet Stores May Contain Invasive Zebra Mussels

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County officials are warning residents that a troublesome invasive species may be lurking in their aquariums.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture considers zebra mussels to be one of the most destructive invasive animals in North America. And they're being found in an unusual place — inside moss balls sold as aquarium plants.

If they get into the local waterways, they can wreak havoc. Winston-Salem/Forsyth County utility officials say they can clog the sewer and pipe system, disrupting water intake and delivery, in addition to the ecological damage they can do to streams and rivers.

Zebra mussels have been found in moss balls sold at chain pet stores in North Carolina. The product has been recalled, but officials worry about those that have already been purchased.

Anyone who has recently bought a moss ball is asked to dispose of them immediately. Officials say they can be placed in a plastic bag and put in the freezer or soaked in a bleach solution overnight.

They should then be disposed of by placing the treated moss balls in the trash. Engineers warn against getting rid of them in any way that connects to the water system, such as the sink or toilet.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that as of March, more than 30 states have reported the presence of live or dead zebra mussels from pet retailers.