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Freshwater Mussels

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 1000

Freshwater mussels are among the most important yet overlooked animals in rivers, lakes, and streams. Living partially buried in sediment, they filter vast amounts of water each day, removing algae, bacteria, and organic particles. Some species can live for decades, making them long-term stabilizers of freshwater habitats.

© Shutterstock-Damsea

Their life cycle is closely linked to fish, as mussel larvae temporarily attach to fish gills or fins to disperse upstream. By clarifying water and recycling nutrients, freshwater mussels support aquatic plants, insects, and fish communities. Their presence is a strong indicator of clean, well-functioning freshwater ecosystems, though many species are now threatened by pollution and habitat loss.

Dive Sites with This Animal

NEREIDES PLONGEE, 69480 Ambérieux d’Azergues
Plan d’eau du Colombier <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.2)</span>

Plan d’eau du Colombier (★4.2)

Set in a 70-hectare natural area, this 120-hectare lake is a former gravel pit redeveloped for swimming and leisure activities.
NEREIDES PLONGEE, 69480 Ambérieux d’Azergues
Carrière de Chamagnieu <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.0)</span>

Carrière de Chamagnieu (★4.0)

The site has a 2.5-hectare stretch of water, with depths ranging from 0 to 18 meters, reserved for diving. In addition, an area with a maximum depth of 6 meters has been set aside for safe first dives in the natural environment.
Underpressure Watersports, 4852 Weyregg am Attersee
Watersports <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.2)</span>

Watersports (★4.2)

Diving site suitable for all levels of training. Entry via stairs. Multiple platforms ranging from 5m to 40m. Highlights include a sunken sailboat and a car wreck. Family-friendly with a large sunbathing area, toilets, and an on-site buffet. Direct air filling station and equipment rental available.
NEMO33 - The Worlds deepest diving pool, 1180 UCCLE (Brussels)
Scouffleny <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.0)</span>

Scouffleny (★4.0)

A former blue stone quarry, the quarry offers different platforms and allows diving for all levels of divers. SCOUFFLENY is 750m long and 250m wide, 15ha of water, a maximum depth of 44m.