Map of golden mussel observations through time. Data sources: CDFW and iNaturalist Since its initial appearance in California in October 2024, the golden mussel, Limnoperna fortunei, has accomplished Big Things. These little mussels, native to the Pearl River Delta in China, have taken off from their initial foothold in Stockton to spread all the way south to San Diego, and have been spreading northward as well in recent months.

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday declared a state of emergency for California to mobilize resources ahead of a potentially historic super El Niño storm season this winter.

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Alt: Tired Wolf in The Sword In The Stone

Global trade in mussels recorded solid growth in 2025, rising by approximately 8.8 percent during the first nine months compared with the same period in 2024.

Democrats say the timing is suspicious, given the Dec. 1 deadline is after Gov. Greg Abbott and other Republicans who supported the state’s abortion ban are up for reelection.