What are microscopic zebra mussel larvae referred to as?

Microscopic zebra mussel larvae are referred to as "veligers." This term specifically describes the free-swimming larval stage of certain mollusks, including zebra mussels. Veligers have a distinctive shell and are capable of feeding on phytoplankton, which allows them to thrive in aquatic environments. Understanding the terminology associated with different life stages of aquatic organisms is essential, especially when addressing pest control strategies, as management practices often need to target specific life stages for effective results.

The other terms do not accurately describe zebra mussel larvae. Freshwater larvae is a general term that could apply to various types of larvae from different species in freshwater environments but does not specify the unique stage of zebra mussels. Similarly, zooplankton refers to a broader category of microscopic organisms that drift in water, which includes a variety of different species, not just mussel larvae. Microplankton is used to denote small planktonic organisms that can include both plant-like (phytoplankton) and animal-like (zooplankton) varieties, which again does not specifically pinpoint zebra mussel larvae. Therefore, "veligers" is the precise term for microscopic zebra mussel larvae.