Hundreds of years ago, the freshwater pearl mussel formed huge mussel beds in the streams and rivers of Vogtland, thereby attesting to the purity of the waters.
Today, pearl fishing has long been discontinued, yet the freshwater pearl mussel is acutely endangered. Its complex ecology and high habitat requirements allow it to survive only in an intact and natural ecosystem. The "Freshwater Pearl Mussel" experiential trail offers you the opportunity to explore the biology and habitat of this extraordinary mussel in the landscape and to learn more about its cultural history and current conservation efforts.
The experiential trail was funded through the joint project ArKoNaVera of the Saxon State Foundation for Nature and Environment. The Pfaffengut Environmental Center Plauen organizes projects, lectures, and tours.
Learn more about the freshwater pearl mussels at the Saxon State Foundation for Nature and Environment (LANU).
