Freshwater mussels, a keystone species in many aquatic systems, are one of the most endangered organisms in North America. The importance of these organisms was not well understood until the latter half of the 20th Century, but by that time, mussel populations had been severely impacted by harvesting for the button & pearl industries. Many conservation efforts are underway to restore freshwater mussel populations. However, they are limited due to a lack of population demographic records prior to widespread exploitation. Conservation paleobiology can improve restoration efforts by providing ecological baselines for the recovery of endangered species that have insufficient historical data. In this study, we examine a mussel shell assemblage collected from a Quaternary deposit along the riverbed of the Ohio River (OH). Radiocarbon dating of a shell from the deposit suggests that the deposit is about 1,000 years old. However, the radiocarbon reservoir effect for this stream is unknown. Through radiocarbon dating and mussel identification, species abundances through time can be reconstructed. This, paired with a historical exploration of aquatic resource use, can then indicate if the deposit was the result of river dynamics or anthropogenic activity. This information can then be used to help inform present-day mussel conservation and reintroduction efforts.
Career Readiness Skills
Communication: Throughout my project, I have had the opportunity to communicate with experts in the field of malacology. I have also learned how to convey my research to an audience outside of my field by presenting at the 2025 Ohio Academy of Science (OAS) Annual Meeting.
Professionalism: By presenting my research at the OAS meeting & and the Undergraduate Research Forum, I am able to represent my department & the university.
Technology: I learned the lab procedures needed to prepare my samples for radiocarbon dating. I have also used Excel to store & organize my data.
Career & Self-development: I have developed valuable skills while working on this project, such as museum collaboration, that I can use as I progress through my education & into my career as a scientist.
Authors
Lilly Champagne (Geology), Emily Ratvasky (Geology), Dr. Jason A. Rech (Department of Geology & Environmental Earth Science), John Spaeth (EDGE Engineering & Science)
Dr. Jason A. Rech
Acknowledgements
Nate Shoobs at the Ohio State Museum of Biological Diversity | American Malacological Society | Miami University Department of Geology & Environmental Earth Science