Zebra Mussel (Noun)
Meaning
Inch long mollusk imported accidentally from Europe; clogs utility inlet pipes and feeds on edible freshwater mussels.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- Zebra mussels have caused millions of dollars in damage to water treatment plants by clogging pipes and screens.
- The zebra mussel infestation led to a significant decline in native mussel populations due to predation.
- Removing the zebra mussel from the affected pipe took several hours and required specialized equipment.
- Biologists have warned that if left unchecked, the zebra mussel population in the lake could double every few months.
- Utility companies are taking measures to prevent zebra mussel infestations by monitoring water intake pipes closely.