How long can adult and larval mussels survive out of water?

Adult and larval mussels can survive out of water for up to 30 days. This resilience can be attributed to their ability to enter a state of dormancy when removed from their aquatic environment. During this time, they can conserve moisture and reduce metabolic activity, allowing them to withstand adverse conditions until they are back in water.

Understanding this duration is crucial in the context of aquatic invasive species (AIS) management, as it emphasizes the risk of transferring invasive mussel species across water bodies. Knowing that they can survive for 30 days highlights the importance of thorough inspection and cleaning protocols for boats and equipment to prevent the spread of these species.