Freshwater mussels are mollusks that get their microscopic food by filtering water through thin membranes.

They live partly submerged in the clay or mud at the bottom of the lake or stream. To feed, they open their shells and allow water to pass through a delicate membrane.

Conservation Connect Toolboxes are packaged episodes with additional middle school related content such as Conservation Connect lesson plans tailored to the Next Generation Science Standards, an activity guide, and a photo gallery for your students to use.