Viral photo exposes new menace in Australia’s waterways—find out what it is
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Changes in our natural surroundings can often be subtle. Yet, their impact can be significant, just like how the familiar peace of our waterways, a place many of us have enjoyed for years, is facing an unexpected challenge.
In Australia's waterways, a silent invader is making its presence known, and it's not the kind of guest you'd want to entertain. Experts are concerned about a recent development that could alter the delicate balance of our aquatic ecosystems.
Biosecurity experts are raising the alarm over a tiny but formidable foe—the freshwater gold clam. This invasive species, first recorded in Australia in February 2024, has been causing quite a stir among environmentalists and water management authorities.
Biosecurity Queensland recently issued a warning after a dog walker spotted the shellfish in Kedron Brook.
'Freshwater gold clam is a small shellfish, with a big threat to our freshwater ecosystems. It can outcompete native species and diminish water quality,' they said.
The freshwater gold clam may be small—typically less than 25mm in size—but can grow up to 65mm. The clam's rapid growth, short lifespan, and high reproductive rate allow it to multiply alarmingly fast.
It disperses via water currents, ship ballast water, and the aquarium trade. The reason why experts are concerned? Well, it poses serious environmental and economic challenges by outcompeting native species, obstructing pipes and pumps, and lowering water quality.
While it is already widespread in New Zealand, North America, and South America, its recent appearance in Australia has spurred authorities into action to control its spread.
The situation is so severe that the National Biosecurity Management Consultative Committee convened in January 2024. After the clam had become firmly established in the Ipswich region of the Brisbane River, they decided that no effective eradication methods currently exist.
'Freshwater gold clam has not been successfully eradicated from any locality it has invaded globally,' the committee said.
Authorities believe the pest likely arrived via ballast water or was accidentally introduced through the aquarium trade. While some invasive species can hitch rides on migratory birds, this clam requires water to transfer, making such a scenario unlikely.
However, not all tiny clams are invasive. The native Corbicula australis, or 'Little Basket Clam,' is often mistaken for the freshwater gold clam.
Have you encountered any invasive species in your local area? What measures do you think could be taken to combat these ecological threats? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
In Australia's waterways, a silent invader is making its presence known, and it's not the kind of guest you'd want to entertain. Experts are concerned about a recent development that could alter the delicate balance of our aquatic ecosystems.
Biosecurity experts are raising the alarm over a tiny but formidable foe—the freshwater gold clam. This invasive species, first recorded in Australia in February 2024, has been causing quite a stir among environmentalists and water management authorities.
Biosecurity Queensland recently issued a warning after a dog walker spotted the shellfish in Kedron Brook.
'Freshwater gold clam is a small shellfish, with a big threat to our freshwater ecosystems. It can outcompete native species and diminish water quality,' they said.
The freshwater gold clam may be small—typically less than 25mm in size—but can grow up to 65mm. The clam's rapid growth, short lifespan, and high reproductive rate allow it to multiply alarmingly fast.
A newly discovered invasive species, the freshwater gold clam, is causing significant concern among Australian biosecurity experts and environmentalists due to its potential impact on waterways. Credit: Kindel Media
It disperses via water currents, ship ballast water, and the aquarium trade. The reason why experts are concerned? Well, it poses serious environmental and economic challenges by outcompeting native species, obstructing pipes and pumps, and lowering water quality.
While it is already widespread in New Zealand, North America, and South America, its recent appearance in Australia has spurred authorities into action to control its spread.
The situation is so severe that the National Biosecurity Management Consultative Committee convened in January 2024. After the clam had become firmly established in the Ipswich region of the Brisbane River, they decided that no effective eradication methods currently exist.
'Freshwater gold clam has not been successfully eradicated from any locality it has invaded globally,' the committee said.
Authorities believe the pest likely arrived via ballast water or was accidentally introduced through the aquarium trade. While some invasive species can hitch rides on migratory birds, this clam requires water to transfer, making such a scenario unlikely.
Queensland residents were urged to report any sightings of the freshwater gold clam to Biosecurity Queensland. They were also advised to check, clean, and dry boats or equipment used in affected areas before moving to another waterway to prevent further spread.However, not all tiny clams are invasive. The native Corbicula australis, or 'Little Basket Clam,' is often mistaken for the freshwater gold clam.
Surveys at Lake Samsonvale in late 2024 confirmed healthy numbers of native clams and no signs of the invasive species—a glimmer of hope in the fight against freshwater pests.
The full extent of the freshwater gold clam's spread is still unknown, but one thing is clear: early detection is crucial. If left unchecked, this tiny invader could wreak havoc on Australia's waterways, causing significant environmental and economic damage.
Have you encountered any invasive species in your local area? What measures do you think could be taken to combat these ecological threats? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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