Functional traits of a native and an invasive clam of the genus Ruditapes occurring in sympatry in a coastal lagoon.

ABSTRACT: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the functional traits regarding bioturbation activity and its influence in the nutrient cycling of the native clam species Ruditapes decussatus and the invasive species Ruditapes philippinarum in Ria de Aveiro lagoon. Presently, these species live in sympatry and the impact of the invasive species was evaluated under controlled microcosmos setting, through combined/manipulated ratios of both species, including monospecific scenarios and a control without bivalves. Bioturbation intensity was measured by maximum, median and mean mix depth of particle redistribution, as well as by Surface Boundary Roughness (SBR), using time-lapse fluorescent sediment profile imaging (f-SPI) analysis, through the use of luminophores. Water nutrient concentratio

SUBMITTER: Lopes ML 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6237838 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature