Precision species identification for rapid environmental assessment

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Public taxon detections (British Isles)

TaxaScreen® Pearl Mussel

Margaritifera margaritifera
Category: Rare/protected
Habitat: Freshwater

Turnaround time: 5 business days

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The freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is a critically endangered species found in a few rivers in the UK, primary in Scotland, Wales, and northern England. These long-lived bivalves play an important role in maintaining river ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitat for other species. However, they are under severe threat from habitat degradation, pollution, and declining host fish populations needed for their larval stage, which parasitises salmon and trout.
May, June, July, August, September
Spawns between June and August with glochidia released in June and July. Test concurrently with salmonids where possible due to infection of host gills. Critically endangered, low-disturbance sampling is essential.
Which sampling kit will I need to buy?

We sell our sampling kits separately from our testing so that our clients have maximum flexibility.

This test needs one of:

 
We are also able to accept sampling kits from other companies for this test. 

As soon as your order is received our system emails you a sample submission form for this test. Please check your junk mail if you haven’t received it within a few minutes of your order. 

The email comes with full instructions for submitting your sample to us to ensure the best quality testing. 

You will receive your results in your online account. 

The testing for detection of this species is carried out via real-time PCR (qPCR), which has the greatest sensitivity and specificity of all eDNA detection methods. 

For customers without a business account we accept pre-payment with a debit or credit card. 

For customers who have a business account we are able to offer terms, purchase orders, credit/debit card payments and invoicing payment options. You can apply for a business account at the same time as you register for an account at checkout.

If you have any questions about sampling strategy, panel suitability, or anything else, book a free consultation with one of our molecular ecologists.