Marine Life in the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States and the largest in terms of watershed and the third-largest river system in the world, covering 2,320 miles from north to south. The Mississippi River is renowned for its rich, diverse aquatic life, with more than 300 species of fish, mussels, and other aquatic creatures living in and around this iconic river system. But is there any marine life in the Mississippi River?
The answer is yes. Although most of the marine life found in the Mississippi River is freshwater species, there is a surprisingly diverse array of fish and other creatures that call the river home. According to the United States Geological Survey, some of the most common fish species in the Mississippi River include the channel catfish, channel crayfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, crappie, and walleye. These fish species are often categorized as “sportfish,” meaning that these species are popular for recreational anglers and those looking for a good fishing spot.
In addition to the variety of fish species, there are also a number of amphibians, reptiles, and mussels in the Mississippi River. The most common species of amphibians and reptiles in the river include the green frogs, bullfrogs, tadpoles, and a variety of turtles. Among the marine mussels found in the Mississippi River, the most common include the Asian clam, freshwater mussel, and the purple-shelled fanshell.
As far as the water quality of the Mississippi River is concerned, the USGS notes that it is generally good with low levels of pollutants. However, the Mississippi River is not immune from environmental degradation from human activity. Agricultural runoff from nearby farms, industry, and urbanization has been a major factor in the declining quality of the river’s water. This has led to a gradual decrease in the population of some aquatic species and can even impact the health of some of the river’s fish species.
In light of the recent turmoil in the Mississippi River’s environment, experts suggest that it is important to take measures to protect the river from further damage. One of the most effective ways to protect the river is to reduce the level of pollutants entering the river. This can include reducing the amount of chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides used in agricultural activities and limiting the discharge of pollutants from industrial sources.
In addition, experts also suggest that people can help protect the Mississippi River by engaging in activities that contribute to the health of the river, such as fishing and bird watching. These activities can help raise awareness about the importance of protecting the river and its marine life.
Freshwater Species in the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is home to a wide variety of freshwater species. One of the most common species in the river is the channel catfish, which can be found in large numbers along the river’s coursing pathways. Other popular fish species found in the Mississippi River include the northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, and crappie. These fish species are popular among recreational anglers as well as commercial fishermen.
In addition to the popular fish species, the Mississippi River is also home to a variety of mussels and other benthic invertebrates. These mussels include species such as the Asian clam, freshwater mussel, and the purple-shelled fanshell. These species play an important role in the river’s ecosystem by providing food for other creatures and filtering the river’s sediment.
The types of fish, mussels, and other invertebrates found in the Mississippi River differ depending on the location of the river. As the river snakes its way through several states, the aquatic species and their populations will change from one location to another.
Overall, the Mississippi River is home to a variety of freshwater species, from fish to mussels to amphibians and reptiles. This wide variety of life forms enables the river to act as a natural habitat to a wide variety of creatures, making the Mississippi River a vital part of regional and global ecology.
Environmental Challenges Affecting the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is an immensely important ecosystem, not only for its water resources but also for its variety of aquatic life. Unfortunately, the river is not immune to environmental damage. The most pressing issue facing the Mississippi River is the accelerated rate of pollution caused by human activity.
Industrial waste, fertilizer runoff, and urbanization all contribute to the diminishing water quality in the river. Chemical pollutants from these activities can have a devastating effect on the aquatic species found in the river. In addition, unchecked development along the river’s banks can lead to a decrease in the number of habitats available for aquatic species.
Another major environmental challenge facing the Mississippi River is water diversion. As the river snakes its way through several states, a number of dams have been constructed, which can change the course of the river and affect the amount of flow to downstream areas. These diversions can disrupt the ecosystem of the river, leading to a decrease in aquatic species.
Finally, climate change is rapidly altering the Earth’s ecosystems, and the Mississippi River is no exception. Warmer temperatures, more extreme weather events, and changes in precipitation can all have an effect on the river’s aquatic life.
Saving the Mississippi River
Given the rapid rate of environmental changes affecting the Mississippi River, it is very important to take action to protect the river and its aquatic life from further damage. Several organizations are dedicated to preserving the river, from governmental agencies to non-profits and grassroots environmental groups.
One of the most effective ways to protect the Mississippi River and its aquatic life is to reduce the amount of pollutants entering the river. This can include reducing the use of chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides, limiting the discharge of pollutants from industrial sources, and protecting the river’s banks from development.
In addition, citizens can take part in activities that contribute to the health of the river, such as fishing, birdwatching, and river cleanups. These activities can help raise awareness about the importance of protecting the river and its aquatic life.
Finally, climate change is an immense problem that must be addressed if we want to save the health of the Mississippi River. Reducing carbon emissions, switching to renewable energy sources, and supporting local conservation efforts are all important ways to help protect the river from the impacts of climate change.
Conservation Efforts in the Mississippi River
In the face of environmental degradation, a number of conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect the Mississippi River and its aquatic life. These efforts include federal and state initiatives, private sector initiatives, and grassroots initiatives.
At the federal level, the United States government has been working to protect the river and its wildlife since the 1960s. The US Fish and Wildlife Service is responsible for monitoring wildlife populations and heavily regulates the harvesting of fish, mussels, and other aquatic species.
At the state level, a number of initiatives have been developed to protect the health of the Mississippi River. For example, the Mississippi River states have developed an interstate aquatic species management plan to protect the river’s aquatic life. In addition, each state has developed its own initiatives to protect the river, such as water quality programs and aquatic habitat restoration projects.
Finally, numerous non-profit and grassroots organizations have been working to improve the health of the Mississippi River. These groups often focus on specific areas of conservation, such as water quality, river cleanups, habitat restoration, and species preservation. By working together, these organizations can help make a real difference in the health of the Mississippi River.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an incredibly important ecosystem, both for its diverse aquatic life and for its immense water resources. Unfortunately, the river is facing numerous environmental challenges, from pollution to climate change. It is therefore important to take action to protect the river and its marine life from further harm.
By reducing pollution, engaging in activities that support the health of the river, and supporting local conservation efforts, people can make a real difference in the health of the river and its aquatic life. With the right actions and dedication, the Mississippi River and its marine life can once again become a vibrant and healthy ecosystem.
