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Story: Lakes

Freshwater mussel

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Freshwater mussel

This freshwater mussel (Hyridella menziesii) is common in lakes and streams around New Zealand. It can grow up to 10 centimetres long, and prefers a firm sand or muddy surface.

Using this item

Department of Conservation

Reference: 10056104

by Sjaan Chateris

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How to cite this page

Simon Nathan, Lakes – Life in and around lakes, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/11820/freshwater-mussel (accessed 10 June 2026).

Story by Simon Nathan, published 1 March 2009.