• The way in which nutrient level changes and exotic mussels affect the Lake Erie food 
web and the fish community are being examined. 
• A genetic probing technique is being developed that will quickly screen water samples 
for zebra mussel veligers. 
• The role of embayments and inshore areas as nursery grounds for alewife and other 
species is being examined. 
• The influence of zebra mussels in metal cycling in freshwater ecosystems is being 
examined and whether zebra mussels may serve as bioindicators for the presence of toxic 
metals in freshwater systems is being investigated. 
• The effects of zebra mussels on the spawning shoals of walleye and lake trout are being 
studied. 
• Plots of Japanese knotweed are being treated and plotted in order to test three control 
methods: (1) repeated cutting; (2) herbicide injections; and (3) limited excavation with 
replanting. 
• A non-herbicide approach for treatment of knotweed is being identified. 
A.33.6. RESEARCH NEEDS 
• Plants not currently targeted for biocontrol, such as curlyleaf pondweed need to be 
researched. 
• More information about how to restore wetlands after biocontrol need to be attained. 
• Studies should be conducted to determine whether biocontrol organisms identified 
overseas are specific enough for the species that are being targeted in New York 
(Knotweed, Water Chestnut, and Phragmites) and whether these biocontrols can be 
introduced safely into North America. 
• Economic and agricultural impacts of invasive species need to be demonstrated. 
• Information on biocontrol (predators, pests, diseases) for sea lampreys and on how 
knotweed affects aquatic species needs to be attained. 
• Research is need on mussel control methods, especially for the quagga mussel. 
A-88 
