Freshwater pearl mussel Freshwater pearl mussel The freshwater pearl mussel ("Margaritifera margaritifera") is an endangered species of freshwater mussel, an aquatic bivalve mollusc in the family Margaritiferidae. Although the name "freshwater pearl mussel" is often used for this species, other freshwater mussel species can also create pearls and some can also be used as a source of mother of pearl. In fact, most cultured pearls today come from "Hyriopsis" species in Asia, or "Amblema" species in North America, both members of the related family Unionidae; pearls are also found within species in the genus "Unio". The interior of the shell of "Margaritifera margaritifera"
The Pearl-Qatar project was first revealed, the initial cost of constructing the island stood at $2.5 billion. It is now believed the project will cost $15 billion upon completion. The name "The Pearl" was chosen because the island is being built on one of Qatar's previous major pearl diving sites. Qatar was one of the major pearl traders of Asia before the Japanese introduced cheaper more affordable pearls just before Qatar's oil boom. The Pearl Qatar will help represent Qatar's rich past in the pearl industry. Once completed The Pearl will resemble a string of pearls. Residential development on the island is