A study has modelled habitats most vulnerable to a Gold Clam invasion -- said to be a major threat to the health of our country's freshwater ecosystem

While the highly invasive species has only been spotted in the Waikato catchment so far, research has found it could thrive in other areas.

Freshwater ecologist Finnbar Lee says it could destroy ecosystems and damage infrastructure all over the country, if we don't prevent the spread.

He says suitable habitats are mostly in the North Island, in particular, Northern Waikato, Auckland, Northland, Bay of Plenty and Hawke's Bay, with some also in the South Island.