The California Fish and Game Commission has taken emergency action to protect state waters against an invasive mussel that’s been discovered in Northern California.

The actions to address the discovery of the golden mussel came at the commission’s meeting in Sacramento on Dec. 11 and 12.

To protect California against the spread of the invasive golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) discovered Oct. 17 at the Port of Stockton, and in the days following as far south as San Luis Reservoir’s O'Neill Forebay, the commission added the golden mussel to the list of species restricted from live importation, transportation and possession.

This discovery is North America’s first; the golden mussel is native to China and Southeast Asia and was likely transported across the ocean on large ships.

The discovery is a concern for Lake County officials.

Angela DePalma-Dow, invasive mussel coordinator for Lake County Water Resources, told Lake County News this fall that golden mussels are similar in shape and size as quagga and zebra mussels, and have potential to cause just as much damage if introduced into freshwater lakes and streams.

DePalma-Dow updated the Lake County Board of Supervisors about the discovery of the mussels in Northern California at the board’s Dec. 10 meeting.

“Golden mussels are a bigger threat to California waters than quagga and zebra mussels because they can thrive in a wider range of water quality conditions,” said Jay Rowan, chief of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Fisheries Branch. “Putting golden mussels on the restricted species list is an important first step toward containment and prevention of spread of this non-native species.”

The emergency listing will reduce the potential for people to introduce the bivalves to other waters of the state, officials said.

The species poses an immediate threat to the ecological health of the Delta — into which the waters of Clear Lake flow — and all waters of the state, water conveyance systems, infrastructure and water quality.

The commission’s action makes it illegal to be in possession or transport golden mussels in California.