Impact and colonization dynamics of the bivalve Rocellaria dubia on limestone experimental panels in the submerged Roman city of Baiae (Naples, Italy)

Abstract

The present study describes the role of the bivalve Rocellaria dubia Pennant, 1777 in the bioerosion process of submerged limestone artificial panels. The research was carried out in the central Mediterranean sea, in the Underwater Archaeological Park of Baiae (Naples, Italy). During the three year experimental period, the panels were submerged at 5 m depth and sequentially removed after 12, 24 and 36 months. R. dubia boreholes strongly affected stone material. The rate of bioerosion increased over time. After 36 months settlement still occurred with hundreds of boreholes and the shells were up to 13 mm in length. The results obtained concerning the impact of R. dubia on the experimental panels help to evaluate the bioerosive role of this species on submerged calcareous archaeological structures.