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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed the Sheepnose and Spectaclecase mussels as endangered. These mussels can be found in Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota and in Southeast Iowa in creeks, streams and rivers. But lowering numbers and a lack of breeding has led them to the endangered species list. Scott Gritters, who studies mussels with the DNR, says Southeast Iowa is the most common place they are found in the state. He tells us there are many factors that could contribute to their lower numbers. Mussels are very sensitive to water conditions and quality, so a change in water quality could be the reason. He tells us they use mussels as an indicator for water conditions to come. If mussels start dying, it could mean the water is contaminated and other species who use that water could start to see a reduced population. For more on the Sheepnose and Spectaclecase, listen to our In Touch program today.