Freshwater Biological Association and Lakes Aquarium open new exhibit ‘Restoring Freshwater Mussel Rivers’

Thursday, March 31, 2016

The Freshwater Biological Association (FBA) and the Lakes Aquarium are excited to announce the opening of a new ‘Restoring Freshwater Mussel Rivers’ exhibit at the Lakes Aquarium. Freshwater pearl mussels have been native to our rivers since the last Ice Age. This exhibit showcases the amazing work going on across Cumbria and England to safeguard our remaining populations.

The new interactive exhibit opened to the public on 27 February 2016, with opportunities to meet the team and take part in activities. It was an opportunity for people to find out more about this intriguing species and its fascinating life cycle, the threats currently facing the freshwater pearl mussel and the flagship, Biffa Award funded project “Restoring Freshwater Mussel Rivers in England” lead by the FBA in collaboration with partners Devon Wildlife Trust, North York Moors National Park Authority and South and West Cumbria Rivers Trusts.  

Bill Brierley, Chief Executive of the Freshwater Biological Association says “This project is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference to this critically endangered species. The exhibit the FBA have developed at the Lakes Aquarium is a fantastic opportunity for people to learn about a little-known species and how it helps keep our rivers clean”. 

Chris Sturdy, Displays and Maintenance Manager at the Lakes Aquarium says “The Lakes Aquarium is very excited to be entering a partnership with the FBA to raise awareness of the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel. The new exhibit will showcase information about the mussel in a fun and engaging way for all who visit the aquarium, whilst the aquarium team will support the FBA with their vital conservation work through knowledge exchange and practical help”.

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