Distribuição, abundância relativa e estrutura populacional de Isognomon bicolor (Adams, 1845) no litoral do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Abstract

The exotic bivalve Jsognomon bicolor is found in large densities on the rocky shores of the Rio de Janeiro state and is apparently altering the native community. The aim of this study was to establish the geographic distribution of I. bicolor on the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, to compare population structure among three different areas and to verify the relationship of its relative abundance with the community structure in each area The temporal variation of relative abundance, vertical distribution and population structure of I. bicolor were also investigated. Samples were taken in winter (2002) and summer (2002-03) at Ilha do Brandão (Angra dos Reis), Ponta da Fortaleza (Arraial do Cabo) and Praia Vermelha (Rio de Janeiro). ln Praia Vermelha, samples were also taken in the following winter (2003). The individuals sampled at Praia Vermelha presented the highest maximum and medium sizes, whereas the individuals collected at Ilha do Brandão presented the lowest maximum and medium size. There was a lower number of recruits of L bicolor in these areas than in Ilha do Brandão, where a mode was found in the lower size classes. The most reasonable hypothesis to explain the highest number of recruits in Ilha do Brandão is that Petaloconchus sp. provides a substrate that enhances settlement of larvae and the attachment of individuals. Although Petaloconchus sp. acts as a trap. It enhances recruitment of more individuals but only a few can grow and develop within it.