ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT Quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) continue to pose a threat to water delivery systems because of their ecological and biofouling impacts. Chemical control protocols are a commonly used method for preventing the colonization of quagga mussels because they are versatile, easy to implement, and cost effective. The objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of EarthTec QZ®, a new molluscicide with copper sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4 · 5H2O) as an active ingredient, on preventing quagga mussel veliger colonization during fall, winter, spring, and summer seasons at Lake Mead. The following four Cu2+ concentrations were used in the study: 0 (control), 0.06, 0.12, and 0.18 ppm. The results of the study show that 0.18 ppm of CuSO4 · 5H2O is effective in preventing veliger colonization on ‘berglass panels during all four seasons, and 0.12 ppm of CuSO4 · 5H2O reduces colonization rates by 59% for the fall season and 93% for the winter, spring, and summer seasons. This yearlong study shows that CuSO4 · 5H2O can be useful as an added option for the management of quagga mussel biofouling in water treatment facilities and hydraulic power plants.
