An Investigative Study into the C. flumenia and its Interactions with its Surrounding Ecosystem

Abstract

his research focused on the physical characteristics of Corbicula flumenia, an invasive species of clam found in the American River, and how these characteristics give it a possible survival advantage over native clam species of the river. Clams were collected from the American River and dissected, while river water and soil samples were also collected. The water and soil were analyzed for levels of coliforms such as E. coli, since this could be a food source that gives the Asian Clam an advantage over native species. The Asian clams were analyzed for their feeding efficiency of E. coli compared to algae and also compared for anatomical differences to the native species by measuring cirri size, which could increase feeding rates within these clams, giving them a competitive edge over their native competitors. It was found that there was much E. coli in the water and soil, but no significant correlation was found between clam cirri size and feeding rate. The Asian clam’s DNA and protein expression was analyzed for genetic mutations that contribute to the species’ invasive advantage.