The mighty Pheasantshell mussel, the workhorse water filter of rivers (center) is experiencing mass die-offs in VA and other parts of the world. (Credit Kurt Holtz)
The freshwater mussel is nature’s river cleaner. But every autumn, for three years running, there’s been a mass die off of one of the most important species.
Biologists say if this continues, it could be a warning sign for global river ecosystems.
Robbie Harris reports from the Virginia Tennessee border.
Virginia Public Radio 