ABSTRACT
This chapter describes structural components of dams and hydroelectric plants that are vulnerable to fouling by dreissenid mussels (zebra mussel Dreissena polymorpha and quagga mussel Dreissena rostriformis bugensis). Various external and internal components of these structures are at varied levels of risk to fouling based on their geometry and materials of construction. In general, the larger and more easily accessible the component on a dam or hydroelectric power plant, the lower the problem of fouling and the easier it is to clean and maintain if fouling occurs. The smaller and more complex the component, the harder it may be to mitigate fouling problems. Facilities, systems, and components vulnerable to dreissenid mussel fouling have been identied through facility vulnerability assessments performed in North America, South America, and Europe and are described in detail in this chapter. The same fouling risks posed by dreissenid mussels are also associated with the golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) in South America.
