Freshwater Mussels
Description
Tank Size
Minimum 100 litres+ for most species.
They need deep substrate (5–7 cm) to burrow.
Substrate
Use fine sand or smooth small gravel.
Avoid sharp stones.
Water Conditions
Temperature: 18–24°C
pH: 6.5–8.0
Hardness: Prefer moderately hard water
Ammonia/Nitrite: ALWAYS 0 (even small amounts kill them)
Flow
Need gentle to moderate water flow, like a river bed.
A small powerhead helps keep water moving.
Oxygen
Mussels need high oxygen levels.
Add an air stone or sponge filter.
Feeding
Although they filter-feed, aquariums do not naturally provide enough food.
You MUST supplement:
Food Options
Live phytoplankton
Green water (algae-rich tank water)
Liquid invertebrate foods
Micro foods (e.g., marine phytoplankton—safe for freshwater mussels)
Feed 2–3 times a week.
Very Important
Mussels can starve silently
If they are not fed properly, they slowly die and decompose, which can crash the tank.