Abstract
The bivalve Myoforceps aristatus (Dillwyn, 1817), also known as Lithophaga aristata, have been recently collected in the coasts of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil; a species that bores shells of other mollusks. This occurrence has been interpreted as an invasion of this species, originally from the Caribbean. The distinguishing character of the species is the posterior extensions of the shell crossing with each other. Because specimens with this character have also been collected in the Pacific Ocean, they all have been considered a single species. However, it is possible that more than one species may be involved in such worldwide distribution. With the objective of providing full information based on Atlantic specimens, a complete anatomical description is provided, which can be used in comparative studies with specimens from other oceans. Additional distinctive features of M. aristatus are the complexity of the incurrent siphon, the kidney opening widely into the supra-branchial chamber (instead of via a nephropore), and the multi-lobed auricle.
Highlights
Myoforceps aristatus (Dillwyn, 1817), previously known as Lithophaga aristata, is a small bivalve that bores into calcareous hard substrata, mainly shells of other mollusks
This paper reports the first occurrence of Myoforceps aristatus, another invasive species on the Brazilian coast, and provides new data on its morphology and anatomy
Myoforceps aristatus has been only recently found on the southwest Brazilian coast and is considered introduced, originally from the Caribbean
Summary
Myoforceps aristatus (Dillwyn, 1817), previously known as Lithophaga aristata, is a small bivalve that bores into calcareous hard substrata, mainly shells of other mollusks. Samples belonging to Myoforceps aristatus have been collected in the southeastern coast of Brazil in the last two years, far outside of the normal geographic range of the species. The samples were found in shells of larger size, including cultivated scallops (Pectinidae), and attracted attention as an invading bivalve causing possible damage to native species, because the datemussels perforate living shells, causing deformation of the host and even its death. One species of the closely related genus Lithophaga Röding, 1798, is commonly found on the SIMONE, L.R.L. & GONÇALVES, E.P.: MYOPHORCEPS ARISTATUS, AN INVASIVE BIVALVE IN BRAZIL
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
