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Within the large group of animals
known as molluscs, three subgroups
– snails, mussels and clams – have
representatives that live in fresh
water. Because all freshwater molluscs
have hard shells that are often washed up
on shores, they are some of the most conspicuous
of the freshwater invertebrates.
About 180 species of freshwater molluscs
are known to occur in Canada. Of
these, at least 85 species, including 54
snails, 5 mussels and 26 clams, are found
in British Columbia. Although a few
freshwater molluscs are believed to have
survived the last period of glaciation
in B.C., most species have
repopulated the province within the
past 10 000 years, moving in from
adjacent unglaciated areas.
Freshwater molluscs are an integral
part of the complex web of life
that supports biodiversity. Like
other invertebrates, they play an
important role in nutrient cycling,
functioning as decomposers and as
critical links in the food chain.
Lee, Jacqueline S.. 2000. Freshwater Molluscs. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks. Species at Risk Brochure
Topic: Species and Ecosystems at Risk
Keywords: species at risk, freshwater mollusc, sara
English Name: Attenuate Fossaria, Rocky Mountain Capshell, Western Ridgemussel, Threeridge Valvata
Other Identifier:
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