Zebra Mussels Found in Moss Balls in ND Pet Stores

Zebra mussels were recently found in moss balls at some pet stores in North Dakota and several other states. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is urging customers who recently purchased moss balls to properly dispose of them by placing them in a bag, freezing solid, and discarding them into the trash. It’s important to not put moss balls down the toilet or drain.

North Dakota pet stores that received the contaminated shipment have been notified and have removed the moss balls from shelves.

The invasive species have also found in pet stores in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, and Georgia.

To dispose:

1. Remove any pets from the water and tank.
2. Remove the moss ball, other plants, and any water from the aquarium and put them into a heat-safe pot. Do not dispose of any water down the drain or toilet.
3. Inspect the moss ball and tank for zebra mussels and if you find any contact your local Game and Fish regional office or local warden.
4. Boil the moss balls, plants, and any water it’s been in contact with for at least five minutes
5. Dispose of the moss ball and other plants in the trash.
6. Pour out the boiled water on a semi-permeable surface. That could be a houseplant or outside — like grass or soil — that is not located near standing water or a storm drain.

Do not flush the moss ball or pour aquarium water down any drains, toilets, or into nearby water sources like a local pond or creek. These actions could spread zebra mussels throughout the water system.