The aim of the project is the first nationwide implementation of a species conservation concept for the freshwater pearl mussel, Margaritifera margaritifera. The project seeks both to optimize breeding at the four different breeding stations and to enhance habitats within the mussel catchment areas, as well as to improve the structural quality of the streams. These measures serve to promote and preserve populations of the freshwater pearl mussel, brown trout, and other associated species of national conservation responsibility in the target water bodies. The overarching goal is the rejuvenation and long-term safeguarding of viable freshwater pearl mussel populations.
Since 2021, the Chair of Aquatic Systems Biology, in cooperation with the Molecular Zoology research group (Prof. Ralph Kühn), has documented the genetic constitution of juvenile mussels from various breeding cycles at the breeding stations. For each cycle, both adult mussels used to collect larvae (glochidia) and juvenile mussels are sampled and analyzed using microsatellite markers. The associated brown trout stocks (wild and hatchery populations) are also genetically characterized.
Since 2022, biomonitoring of released juvenile mussels has been carried out using PIT-tag technology. The movement patterns in different stream sections are studied to draw conclusions about the suitability of the release habitats.
Project Lead:
Technische Universität München, Lehrstuhl für Aquatische Systembiologie
Project Partners:
- Trägergemeinschaft zur Rettung der FPM in Südostbayern
- Bund Naturschutz Kreisgruppe Hof
- Technische Universität Dresden, Institut für Hydrobiologie
- Landratsamt Vogtlandkreis
- Biologische Station StädteRegion Aachen e.V.
- Sächsische Landesstiftung Natur und Umwelt