Lampsilis cariosa

Yellow Lampmussel

FWS Focus

Overview

Characteristics
Overview

The yellow lampmussel is a large freshwater mussel in the Unionidae family, commonly referred to as pearly mussels. Though an uncommon species, the yellow lampmussel has a large range throughout much of the Northeast U.S., from Maine to as far south as Georgia, as well as New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada. They are typically found in flowing water of medium to large rivers, but the species has also been documented historically in ponds in the northern portions of its range. 

Like other freshwater mussels, the yellow lampmussel is at risk from habitat degradation in streams and the surrounding watershed, barriers to aquatic connectivity, contaminants, and diseases. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with partners to support research, habitat restoration, propagation, and other actions that will help restore native freshwater mussel species.

Scientific Name

Lampsilis cariosa
Common Name
yellow lampmussel
FWS Category
Clams
Kingdom

Location in Taxonomic Tree

Identification Numbers

TSN:

Characteristics

Characteristic category

Physical Characteristics

Characteristics
Color & Pattern

The shell of the yellow lampmussel is oval and yellow, sometimes with streaks of green. The inside of the shell is generally white or blueish white. 

Characteristic category

Life Cycle

Characteristics
Life Span

It is estimated that yellow lampmussels live at least 15 years. 

Geography

Characteristics
Range

The range of the yellow lampmussel includes Connecticut, Delaware, D.C., Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Virginia, and New Brunswick and Nova Scotia Canada 

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