Mapleleaf facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mapleleaf |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Quadrula
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| Species: |
quadrula
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Quadrula quadrula, also called the mapleleaf, is a type of freshwater mussel. It is an aquatic bivalve mollusk. This means it is a soft-bodied animal with two shells. These shells are connected by a hinge. The mapleleaf mussel belongs to the family Unionidae, which are often called river mussels.
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About the Mapleleaf Mussel
The mapleleaf mussel is an important part of its underwater home. Like other mussels, it helps keep the water clean. It does this by filtering out tiny bits of food and other particles from the water. This process is called filter feeding.
Where the Mapleleaf Mussel Lives
This mussel is native to eastern North America. You can find it in parts of Eastern Canada and the northern Eastern United States. It lives in the large river systems of these areas. This includes the Ohio River and the St. Lawrence River. It also lives in the Great Lakes region. Mapleleaf mussels usually live on the bottom of rivers and streams. They often bury themselves in the sand or gravel.
What the Mapleleaf Mussel Looks Like
The mapleleaf mussel gets its name from its shell. The shell can sometimes have a shape that looks a bit like a maple leaf. Its shell is usually thick and can be yellowish-brown to dark brown. It often has bumps or ridges on its surface.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Freshwater mussels have an interesting life cycle. The mapleleaf mussel reproduces by releasing tiny larvae. These larvae are called glochidia. They need to attach to the gills or fins of certain fish for a short time. This stage helps the young mussels travel to new places. After a few weeks, they drop off the fish as tiny juvenile mussels. Then they grow into adult mussels on the riverbed.
