Supplementary Information files for Exploring the desiccation tolerance of the invasive bivalve Corbicula fluminea (Müller 1774) at different temperatures
Supplementary Information files for Exploring the desiccation tolerance of the invasive bivalve Corbicula fluminea (Müller 1774) at different temperatures Corbicula fluminea (Mu¨ller, 1774) (Mollusca, Corbiculidae) is among the most successful and
widespread invaders of aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Given its wide geographical distribution and
documented effects on aquatic ecosystems, there is
considerable interest in quantifying its behaviour,
propagation and control. We conducted a series of
laboratory experiments to assess the effects of complete desiccation (aerial exposure at high relative
humidity) on a UK population of C. fluminea for: (1)
different environmental temperatures (6 scenarios:
from cool winter droughts to summer heatwave
thermal conditions); and (2) two size classes
([ 1 cm and B 1 cm). A mortality rate of 100% was
obtained for all experiments, except the lowest
temperature scenario of 4 C. For both high-temperature scenarios (25 and 30 C) 100% mortality was
recorded after 48 h, and an elevated mortality rate
recorded after 24 h. An extended period of desiccation
of 5–6 days would be necessary to reach a mortality
rate of 90% at 15 C and 3.5 days at 20 C. Statistical
analysis demonstrated a significant effect of
temperature on mortality, but both size classes
displayed similar responses to desiccation. The greatest difference in mortality was recorded between the
highest and lowest experimental temperatures. C.
fluminea was particularly tolerant to desiccation when
low temperature and high humidity conditions coincided, suggesting it could potentially spread to regions
beyond its current eco-geographical range. The results
will be of direct interest for regulatory authorities
considering desiccation (and water level management)
as a means of managing and preventing the further
spread of this species.
Funding
Royal Society-Newton International Fellowship at Loughborough University, UK (NIF\R1\180346)