Zebra mussels in Marimo Photo: North Dakota Game & Fish

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North Dakota Game & Fish Department and North Dakota Department of Agriculture are urging pet stores, aquarium owners and plant enthusiasts to take action after invasive zebra mussels were found in moss ball plants in North Dakota and other states.

Game & Fish Wildlife Biologist Doug Leier reports that the moss balls, also known as Marimo balls, are sold at many aquarium and pet supply stores, as well as some floral shops and nurseries.

Anyone in possession of these moss balls should take the following actions to safely destroy and dispose of the products.

“Proper disposal of infested moss balls is critical. Do not dispose of moss balls down drains, or in streams, ponds or lakes,” North Dakota Game and Fish Director Terry Steinwand said. “Once in our waters, zebra mussels reproduce rapidly and have negative impacts to fish and wildlife populations and water quality.”

Visit gf.nd.gov for proper disposal tips of the moss balls.

In other Game & Fish news, Leier encourages anyone who spots an active eagle nest to report it to the department.

Leier also reminds residents to purchase their new fishing license by April 1 the old one expires March 31st.

Listen to Doug Leier every Thursday at 7:35 AM on Big Dog 95.5 FM.