They are called shiny pigtoes, purple wartybacks, monkeyfaces, and pink heelsplitters. Who am I talking about? Freshwater Mussels! Who knew they were such amazing and fierce filters of earth’s freshwater ecosystem? Because of their importance in maintaining clean water, we must act now to make sure they are protected.

Just one little shiny pigtoe can filter up to a gallon of water an hour. If you think in terms of thousands of these little “suckers” (literally), you get a clear look of the bigger picture.  The United States is home to the largest number of known species of freshwater mussels. However, if we don’t wake up and determine a way to increase their numbers, we could lose them. Over 1/2 of the freshwater mussel species are in danger of  becoming extinct or already are.

Mark your calendars now for March 22nd, 2011. This is World Water Day, so be sure to remember the freshwater mussel and the part it plays in the purification of our water now and in the future.

To read more about World Water Day and the job mussels do, visit the website for National Geographic.

Photo courtesy of  JoelDeluxe