The fitration rate of Dreissena polymorpha (Bivalvia) in three Dutch lakes with reference to biological water quality management

SUMMARY. 1. The filtration rate of Dreissena polymorpha Pallas measured in the field in three shallow Dutch lakes shows an inverse exponential relationship with the dry matter content of the water. 2. Temperature seems to set only a gross level to the filtration rate in summer and winter season respectively; within a season no clear relation between the filtration rate and temperature exists. 3. Under laboratory conditions the risk of measuring abnormal behaviour of Dreissena polymorpha is shown to be substantial; hence field‐measurements of the filtration rate are preferable. 4. The clearing capacity of the Dreissena polymorpha populations in Lakes IJsselmeer and Markermeer is sufficient to filter both lakes at least once or twice a month. This indicates the potential importance of this species for restoration of turbid, eutrophic lakes by means of biomanipulation.