What do dark pigtoes eat?

Adult round pigtoes feed on microorganisms like bacteria, protozoans, and algae. Mussels are also eaten by many different predators. Other aquatic organisms may attach themselves to the shells of round pignose mussels and live there.

1. What is a pigtoe?
2. Why is the Atlantic Pigtoe endangered?
3. What is the difference between threatened and endangered species?

What is a pigtoe?

The Georgia pigtoe (Pleurobema hanleyianum) is a freshwater mussel in the family Unionidae (Figure 1). It was described in 1852 by I. Lea as Unio hanleyianum from the Coosawattee River in Georgia. It was placed in the genus Pleurobema by Simpson in 1900.

Why is the Atlantic Pigtoe endangered?

Dams. Dams affect both upstream and downstream mussel populations by disrupting natural flow patterns, scouring river bottoms, changing water temperatures, and eliminating habitat. The Atlantic pigtoe, a mussel adapted to living in river currents, cannot survive in the still water impounded behind dams.

What is the difference between threatened and endangered species?

Endangered species are those plants and animals that have become so rare they are in danger of becoming extinct. Threatened species are plants and animals that are likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.