Filtration rate capacities in undisturbed freshwater bivalves were determined by means of two different methods (indirect "clearance" and "suction" methods) in Anodonta anatina (L.), Unio tumidus Philipsson, Unio pictorum (L.), Unio crassus Philipsson, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas) and Sphaerium corneum (L.). In A. anatina, D. polymorpha, and S. corneum the filtration rate (FR, 1 h-1) at 19-20°C as a function of dry tissue weight (DW, g) or ash-free dry weight (AFDW, g) could be expressed by the equations: 1.10 DW0.78, 6.82 DW0.88, and 2.14 AFDW0.92, respectively. In U. tumidus, U. pictorum, and U. crassus filtration rates were comparable with those of A. anatina. In D. polymorpha the b value of the corresponding regression of gill area on dry weight was 0.87. The rates of water transport in freshwater bivalves are 2-8 times lower than in marine bivalves of comparable size. A corresponding difference in the filtration rate per gill area unit is found. The measured filtration rates in undisturbed bivalves are substantially higher (at least 4 times) than previously reported. This indicates that the impact of bivalve water processing on freshwater ecosystems is greater than hitherto suggested.