Zebra midyesinin (Dreissena polymorpha'nın (Pallas, 1771)) Türkiye'nin bazı su kaynaklarında yaşayan dar kıskaçlı kerevitler üzerinde ilk olarak gözlenmesi

Abstract

The zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas, 1771) is considered as a harmful invasive epibiont species for hydroelectric and nuclear power plants as it reduces or blocks water flow in the plant systems. Although D. polymorpha is reported that it cleans the water, increases water visibility, and filters out pollutants, it has likewise negative impacts on the population and size of some fish and aquatic species. In the present study, zebra mussels were observed for the first time. On the narrow-clawed crayfish living in some water sources in Turkey. Specimens were collected from two natural lakes (Cildir Lake, Egirdir Lake) and five ponds (Altinyazi Dam Lake, Keban Dam Lake, Kucukcekmece Lake, Karpuzlu Dam Lake, Kadikoy Dam Lake) in Turkey. Attachments of the zebra mussel to the different body parts of the narrow-clawed crayfish were documented in the present study. Cochran’s Q test results showed that the numbers of mussels clinging to the different parts of the crayfish varied (P=0.000) (P <0.001). The difference between the holding regions of zebra mussels on crayfish specimens may cause some adverse effects on the host. Particularly the intensive grip on the carapace partially obstruct the movement, feeding, mating, avoiding predators, and shelter. mussel individuals in the pleopodal region may have difficulty holding and transporting eggs. This study is the first report about the occurrence of D. polymorpha on Astacus leptodactylus in Turkish waters.