A Program of the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute

Applied Freshwater Mussel Research for River Management

The NRI Mussel Research Group focuses on the ecology, conservation, and management of freshwater mussels in Texas river systems. Our work supports science-based decision-making for imperiled species, river management, and the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

Freshwater mussels are among the most endangered faunal groups in North America and serve as critical indicators of river health. The NRI Mussel Research Group integrates field surveys, experimental research, and quantitative modeling to address management-relevant questions related to flow alteration, water quality, habitat change, and environmental stressors that influence mussel populations.

The group emphasizes applied, management-driven research, combining rigorous field methods with advanced statistical analyses and modeling to directly inform conservation and regulatory decisions. Research outputs include peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, geospatial products, and management-ready tools used by state and federal partners.

By coupling applied research with strong partnerships, the NRI Mussel Research Group works to ensure that freshwater mussels, and the rivers they depend on, persist for future generations.