Zebra and quagga mussels can be aggressive invaders of waterbodies and, when they reach high densities, can be devastating to native mussel populations (among other impacts). Many lakes and rivers that once supported abundant and diverse communities of native mussels have seen declines after...
Panel Image
Malacology
Malacology is the field of science which studies the molluscs (phylum Mollusca) which includes familiar groups of invertebrates (animals without a back bone) including snails and slugs, clams and mussels, squids, octopuses, scallops, oysters, and chitons. The molluscs are one of the most diverse groups of animals on our planet with over 100,000 known species (up to 200,000 more likely). They occur within almost every type of habitat, from the deep seas to dry deserts, as important members of the ecosystem. Most mollusc species secrete hard shells which are collected by beach combers worldwide. Historically, humans have used molluscs as food, material for weapons, money, religion, and jewelry.
Dr. Denise Mayer
Malacology Collections Manager, Director of Museum’s Field Research Laboratory (Cambridge)
My research focuses on the exotic and native freshwater molluscs in New York. Mollusc communities are important for the healthy functioning of freshwater ecosystems and can make up a majority of the biomass within an ecosystem. My efforts focus on informing people about the fascinating animals...Read more
News Articles
Collections
The New York State Museum is a program of the University of the State of New York
New York State Education Department