Yes, they are an indicator of a healthy pond. And yes, they probably hitched a ride to your pond from somewhere. I've heard that ducks are good at transporting unwanted pond invaders. And finally, yes, they syphon valuable feed out of your water that could be eaten by your baitfish/bluegills. I love catfishing myself. If I had your problem, I would stock the pond with some blue cats large enough to escape predation. They will eventually grow big enough to eat your mussels. How many u would stock, I have no idea. I have always heard and read that blue cats are notorious mussel bed raiders. Could produce some nice lunker catfish for you. Just be aware that the cats will eat other things too.


CATMANDEW