FAUNA AND DISTRIBUTION OF GASTROPOD AND BIVALVE MOLLUSKS (MOLLUSCA: GASTROPODA, BIVALVIA) IN THE LITTORAL ZONE OF THE FAR EAST MARINE BIOSPHERE RESERVE (PETER THE GREAT BAY, SEA OF JAPAN)

Abstract

Aim.The littoral fauna of the Far East Marine Reserve was studied at the end of the last century; however, the monitoring studies of the malacofauna are relevant because of the increased recreational load and the threat of new species introduction. The aim of the work is to update the data on species composition and distribution of gastropods and bivalves on the littoral zone of the reserve.Methods.The material was collected during the monitoring studies in 2012-2014. The compilation of the collections and identification of the species were carried out according to standard methods. For the definition, conventional determinants and atlases were used.Results.As a result of the research, 49 species and taxa of mollusks were found, including 33 gastropods and 15 species and 1 hybrid of bivalves. New for the littoral fauna of the reserve were 13 species of Gastropoda, 3 species and 1 hybrid Bivalvia. It was established that the introduction of Atlantic mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis into benthic communities occurs through its hybridization with native species.Conclusion.The data obtained allows us to present a more complete picture of the biodiversity and distribution of the littoral malacofauna of the reserve, an integral part of Peter the Great Bay.