METODOLOGÍA DE SELECCIÓN DE TECNOLOGÍAS DE CONTROL DEL MEJILLÓN CEBRA EN CONDUCCIONES DE AGUA INDUSTRIALES

Abstract

The Zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, is an invasive fresh water mollusc that causes several problems to industrial premises both in Europe and North America. Such bivalve is highly harmful because of its high reproductive potential, its ability to spread in fresh water courses, and mainly because of the capacity of their young individuals to grow on top of the shells of older zebra mussels, resulting in giant colonies that promote corrosion and can clog all kinds of industrial equipment such as pipework, trash racks, pumping stations and even closed circuits of cooling towers. This paper will critically review in a systematic manner the available technologies for Zebra mussel control, analyzing both their range of use as well as the optimal conditions for their use. Next, a generic methodology for the selection of the most suitable technology, or combination of control technologies informed by the previous analysis is proposed in order to support the Zebra mussel control strategy to be taken by the premises managers. Keywords: Maintenance; Invasive Species; Water