Story: Life in fresh water

Freshwater mussel (2nd of 6)

Freshwater mussel

There are three species of freshwater mussel in New Zealand. Kākahi (Hyridella menziesii), shown here, is the most widespread. Kākahi once formed large beds in lakes and rivers, and were harvested as a food by Māori. Their habitat ranges from small fast-flowing rivers to lakes, where they live on sandy or muddy bottoms. Known as filter feeders, they get food by filtering particles such as phytoplankton from the water.

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Department of Conservation
Reference: 10056104
Photograph by Sjaan Chateris

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How to cite this page:

Roger Young, 'Life in fresh water - Invertebrates', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/11630/freshwater-mussel (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Roger Young, published 24 Sep 2007