Oklahoma Wildlife Officials Warn Invasive Species Found In Aquarium Product

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife is warning an aquarium product sold at pet stores may contain invasive zebra mussels.

Zebra mussels are incredibly invasive and can quickly take over bodies of water.

The "Betta Buddy" product line is being pulled from shelves after zebra mussels were found attached to, and inside, "moss balls," which are used for aquariums, typically to accompany betta fish.

The concern is that live mussels might end up in storm drains or flushed, causing them to clog pipes, as well as spread into new waterways.

ODWC said zebra mussels are native to Eurasia. They ended up in the U.S. in 1986, then caught a ride into Oklahoma through barge traffic in 1993.

The invasive species disrupts the food chain for native fish and mussels. They damage boat engines and cost taxpayers millions of dollars by clogging power plants and public water intakes and pipes.

If you have recently purchased moss balls your next steps should destroy, dispose and drain.

ODWC biologists said you should either freeze the moss balls for 24 hours or boil them for one full minute. Then you will want to seal them in a container and throw them in the trash.

Next, you will want to drain and clean your aquarium, along with all its accessories. Experts recommend a second water change within a week and said you should continue to monitor the tank for any unusual or unexpected aquatic life.

For more information visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website.