Recent introduction of non-indigenous vermetid species (Mollusca, Vermetidae) to the Brazilian coast.

Abstract

The present study describes the bioinvasion of the vermetid gastropod Eualetes tulipa of the Brazilian coast. The species was first reported in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Panama (since the 1840s); however, the type locality was not specified in the original species description. Since then, E. tulipa has been introduced to Hawaii, the Caribbean Sea, southeastern Florida and India. In Brazil, the first documented occurrence was in 2005, at Ceara State, northeast Brazil, and later in 2009 it was registered at Rio de Janeiro State, southeast Brazil, 3000 km from the previous location. Nowadays, they are not only found growing on artificial substrates but also along sandstone fringing reefs and rocky reefs coexisting with the native species Petaloconchus varians. The impact on the native benthic community is unknown; however, studies have suggested impacts such as competing for space with fouling communities (E. tulipa, Venezuela), and causing deleterious effects on corals (Ceraesignum maximum, French Polynesia). The possibility of spread through Brazilian endemic areas (e.g. Abrolhos Marine National Park), is a legitimate cause for concern as a result of oil industry shipping further distributing this non-indigenous species. E. tulipa has a continuous year-long reproduction and fast settlement, within 24 h of hatching. This reproductive mode allows for the highly successful invasion and establishment to new areas following maritime transport or natural rafting, predicting a rapidly widespread distribution and invasion of Brazilian and International waters.