Genetic Characterization of the Invasive Quagga Mussel (Dreissena bugensis) in Southwestern US Lakes

Abstract

Invasive species such as quagga mussel (Dreisseina bugensis) alter native ecosystems around the world. This study uses genetic markers to examine historical lineages for quagga mussels in lakes (reservoirs) of the Colorado River System. Specimens were collected from Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Pleasant, Lake Havasu, Lower Otay Reservoir, Yuma Area, and two Central Arizona Project pumping stations. Objectives of this project were to perform analyses of genetic variability within populations and determine if relatedness among individuals could resolve whether they originate from a single, or multiple, invasion events and genetically distinguish the populations at each water body. Analyses examined the mitochondrial DNA COI region and eight microsatellite DNA markers. Three populations were characterized in the study area and compelling information gathered about gene flow between them. Results indicate that microsatellite markers are useful to track quagga mussel invasions and provide insights into migration patterns that would otherwise be missed.