Officials warn about dangerous moss balls

Invasive zebra mussels have been found in moss balls sold as aquarium plants across New Mexico, according to the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish.

"Any moss balls purchased in New Mexico or online within the last year may pose serious risks to our state’s waterbodies, water systems and wildlife," the department stated in a news release.

Retailers and anyone who recently purchased a moss ball was urged to follow steps to protect waters and wildlife resources.

Remove moss ball and any aquarium items and place in a heat safe pot; fill pot with tap water.

Bring water to a boil and boil contents for a minimum of one minute.

Discard moss ball in the trash; allow other aquarium items to completely dry.

Discard boiled water onto grass or dirt.

Complete a 100% aquarium water exchange; draining water onto grass or dirt and replace filter media, bio bags, etc.

Rinse aquarium with hot water (minimum of 140 degrees), ensuring all sides receive hot water.

Rebuild aquarium and monitor monthly for presence of zebra mussels.

Do not flush moss balls or discard any water into a toilet, sink, bathtub, storm drain or any water sources like ponds, lakes or rivers.

The release said the department and federal officials had worked with pet stores to remove the products from store shelves and to limit further importation.

Zebra mussels are a "dangerous invasive species because they can reproduce quickly and become so dense they clog water pipes and boat motors as well as altering aquatic habitats to the detriment of fish and wildlife," Game & Fish officials stated in the release.