What are Freshwater Mussels?

Freshwater mussels are bivalve mollusks in the order Unionida. Freshwater mussels occur on every continent except Antarctica. North America contains a high diversity of mussels, with approximately 300 species. Oklahoma is home to approximately 60 species of mussels, with the highest diversity and abundance in rivers in the eastern part of the state.

Because many mussel species are now imperiled, please be aware of the Oklahoma regulations for closed or restricted harvesting.