Expansion of invasive Ceratium furcoides (Dinophyta) toward north-central Brazil: new records in tropical environments

Weliton José Da Silva,Mariângela Menezes,Ina De Souza Nogueira,Sheila Magalhães Pessoa,Sarah Haysa Mota Benício,Enaide Marinho De Melo-Magalhães

doi:10.1590/s2179-975x5917

Abstract

Abstract: Aim We record new occurrences of the invasive species Ceratium furcoides in reservoirs and their affluents in the Paraná River basin, State of Goiás (GO), central-western Brazil, and in some localities in the São Francisco River basin, northeastern region. Methods Qualitative and quantitative phytoplankton samples were collected from Corumbá Reservoir and Cascatinha Falls, Caldas Novas, GO, and João Leite Reservoir, Goiânia, GO, both in the Paraná River basin, and samples from the São Franscisco River basin. Specimens of C. furcoides were observed with optical, epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. Results The individuals of C. furcoides from these environments agreed morphologically with populations in other reservoirs in Brazil and other locations, especially concerning the tabulation and the shape of the fourth apical plate. These environments ranged from oligotrophic to eutrophic conditions. Physical and chemical variables of these waterbodies, compared to other environments where this species was found, demonstrate that C. furcoides is a highly eurytopic species. The dispersal pattern of C. furcoides seems to be more complex than upstream-downstream regulation, since the species occurs in high-altitude environments and systems upstream from previously recorded locations. Conclusion An analysis based on the areas of occurrence and the chronology of the records demonstrated that C. furcoides has spread toward northern Brazil. Studies of the relationships among populations recorded in other parts of Brazil and South America are required in order to develop accurate models of dispersal for this invasive species, and will facilitate the development of management policies for aquatic systems in Brazil.

Highlights

An invasive species is defined as a “non-native species that, once established, can spread and rapidly dominate over native species” (Kernan, 2015)
Means of controlling biological invasions are important for ecosystem health
Rapid detection of invasive species and mapping areas with a potential risk of invasions are some of the main strategies for controlling invasions (Lennox et al, 2015; Mazzamuto et al, 2016)

Summary

Introduction

An invasive species is defined as a “non-native species that, once established, can spread and rapidly dominate over native species” (Kernan, 2015). The establishment of an invasive species can be directly or indirectly associated with an anthropogenic event, and its dominance can generate negative effects on the biotic community and environment (Alpert et al, 2000; Kernan, 2015). These effects may result in profound ecological, evolutionary and economic impacts (Epanchin-Niell & Wilen, 2012; Kernan, 2015). The genus is characterized by thecae composed of four apical (4’), six pre-cingular (6”), six cingular (6c), six post‐cingular (6”’) and two antapical (2””) plates plus 2 or more sulcal platelets (Gómez et al, 2010)

Objectives

Methods

Results