The freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera is an endangered bivalve which is usually regarded as sedentary, although individual movement has been observed both vertically and horizontally. Little is known about the causes and rates of mussel movement. The objective of this study was to test the effect of microhabitat characteristics on the horizontal movement distance and rates of freshwater pearl mussels. A total...

Flagship species, especially mammals and birds, are commonly used to increase awareness of conservation issues in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. However, flagship species oriented programs are often ad hoc with initiatives scarce in the freshwater context. Here, we aim to identify potential flagship candidates that would appeal to a broad cross section of society at a continental scale where freshwater ecosystems are under...