The introduction of non-native species is the second leading cause of biodiversity loss, surpassed only by habitat fragmentation and destruction. In Brazil, the Ministry of the Environment has identified 543 invasive species harming ecosystems. Among the top three most damaging is the golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei), a 3 cm Asian mollusk that arrived in South America in the 1990s through ballast water from cargo ships entering via the Río de la Plata estuary.

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With rapid reproduction and no natural predators, golden mussel colonies can reach densities of up to 200,000 individuals per square meter. They spread across multiple river basins, creating environmental, social and economic disruption in sectors such as hydropower, aquaculture, fisheries, inland navigation, ecotourism, and urban water treatment.

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By 2018, the mollusk had already infested 38% of Brazil’s hydroelectric plants, affecting 55% of installed capacity. It clogs ducts, grates, cooling systems, pipes and heat exchangers, damaging pumps, tanks, wells, tunnels, and concrete structures. The result: more frequent maintenance shutdowns, economic losses and risks to electricity generation, with estimated annual losses of US$ 120 million.

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Other sectors also face severe impacts:

• Aquaculture producers suffer from reduced water circulation and quality in tanks due to mussel buildup, leading to increased use of antibiotics

• Both artisanal and sport fishing are harmed, as certain fish ingest the mollusks, which continue to grow inside their digestive systems

• Ecotourism and navigation are affected by hull fouling, which increases drag and fuel consumption, while infested riverbanks and beaches become unsightly and unhygienic, especially when water levels drop, exposing decaying mussels that release foul odors and pose risks to bathers

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To date, all attempts to eliminate the golden mussel using chemical or mechanical methods have failed. Monitoring is essential for developing and applying effective control and mitigation protocols.