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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.




Leptodea fragilis
Leptodea fragilis
(fragile papershell)
Mollusks-Bivalves
Native Transplant

Copyright Info
Leptodea fragilis (Rafinesque, 1820)

Common name: fragile papershell

Synonyms and Other Names: Ohio and Mississippi drainages; St. Lawrence drainage

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Native Range: Ohio and Mississippi drainages; St. Lawrence drainage.

Native range data for this species provided in part by NatureServe NS logo
Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences:

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Leptodea fragilis are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
NY199620002Lower Hudson; Oneida

Table last updated 10/31/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: May have been introduced via the Erie Canal.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Found in large to moderate rivers with sand, sand and gravel, silty sand, and silty mud botttoms.  Spawns in late summer and releases glochidia the following July; host fish is the freshwater drum.

References: (click for full references)

Harman, W.N. 2000. Diminishing species richness of mollusks in Oneida Lake, New York State, USA. The Nautilus 114(3):120-126.

Mills, E.L., D.L. Strayer, M.D. Scheuerell, and J.T. Carlton. 1996. Exotic species in the Hudson River basin: A history of invasions and introductions. Estuaries 19(4):814-823.

Author: Benson, A.J.

Revision Date: 9/1/2017

Citation Information:
Benson, A.J., 2024, Leptodea fragilis (Rafinesque, 1820): U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=2239, Revision Date: 9/1/2017, Access Date: 10/31/2024

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [10/31/2024].

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