Help save freshwater pearl mussels from extinction – donate to the research of the Ģֱ
From 2016, individual mussels have been taken to the Konnevesi Research Station of the Ģֱ for a “honeymoon” – with excellent results. This means that mussels in poor condition have been taken from twelve rivers all around Finland to the research station to recover, and the rehabilitated mussels have reproduced swiftly. Tens of thousands of mussel babies are born in the shelter of the research station every year! The first juvenile mussels were taken to their home river in 2021. The cultivation work is based on research, which helps to determine the optimal conditions for freshwater pearl mussels to reproduce and survive in natural conditions.
Now the Ģֱ is inviting everyone to donate to the research. Securing the reproduction of mussels is a lifeline for the survival of the species, as are the reconditioning of rivers and other actions. In conditions where natural reproduction is not possible, we can help the mussel to reproduce in the laboratory environment.
“As the freshwater pearl mussel is a fragile species, a decline in the number of mussels indicates that the condition of the rivers is deteriorating,” says Professor Jouni Taskinen from the Konnevesi Research Station. “The decline of mussels is a bad thing for the whole river. They play an important part in the water ecosystem as they filter and clean water effectively.”
“Artificial cultivation is a necessary intermediate phase in the protection of pearl mussels and gives hope for saving the endangered mussel species from extinction,” Taskinen says.
Together we can save freshwater pearl mussels! By making a donation, you can help ensure that the important research and cultivation work at Konnevesi continues into the future. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference, so you can donate whatever amount you like. The patron of the campaign is the awarded radio and tv personality Mikko “Peltsi” Peltola, who is known as an active outdoors person, wilderness adventurer and advocate of nature.
“Fundraising is essential to secure our financial base, and donations are welcome for all areas of science,” says Rector Jari Ojala. “Each donation is an important step towards saving the pearl mussel populations.”
A donation to the university is an investment in the future. Even with small sums, you can do a lot of good! When donations to the University exceed 850 euros in a year, you can deduct the sum from your personal or corporate taxation.
The money collection permit of the Ģֱ: RA/2020/634.
