Hitchhiking Exotic Clam: Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas, 1771) Transported via the Ornamental Plant Trade

Ornamental aquaculture is one of the main sources non-native species worldwide. Unintentionally transported “hitchhiking” organisms have been previously recorded; although most these are from tropical regions, here we report on first accidental transport zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) in a shipment ornamental Aegagropila linnaei (Chlorophyta) Russia to Czech Republic. This invasive listed national blacklist alien Republic and can be easily released outdoor garden ponds together with A. linnaei. Since known gateway for aquatic European perspective, re-export other countries also possible. Thus, spread D. polymorpha via this pathway cannot excluded. finding should importance conservationists, traders, decision-makers stakeholders.