Publication
The shell phenotypic variability of the keyhole limpet Fissurella latimarginata: insights from an experimental approach using a water flow flume
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Hydrodynamics are a major environmental factor on intertidal rocky shores. Morphological responses to
this factor are expected to strongly influence spatial distribution of species across environmental gradients.
We here analysed the shell phenotypic variability of the limpet Fissurella latimarginata using geometric mor phometric analysis. The limpets were obtained from a sheltered intertidal coastal area and a wave-exposed
environment. To determine whether the shell shape variation of the intertidal molluscs is linked to their
resistance to differential intertidal wave exposure, mesocosm studies were developed in a hydraulic flume
to explore the effects of hydrodynamic forces on this limpet species. A unidirectional current was used to
test the impacts of step-by-step increased current flow velocities for each limpet. The phenotypic variability
observed in the populations of F. latimarginata was associated with habitats characterized by contrasting wave
exposure. Limpets from exposed environments showed a flattened, round to laterally wider and posteriorly
narrower shell shape, larger foot and higher full limpet height, and were dislodged at higher velocities. A
more laterally compressed and peaked shape was found in limpets from sheltered areas and these showed a
lower resistance to wave action by dislodging at lower velocities.
Description
Keywords
Keyhole limpet Fissurella latimarginata Fissurella latimarginata Shell phenotypic variability . Faculdade de Ciências da Vida
Citation
Vasconcelos, J., Caamaño, D., Tuset, V. M., Sousa, R., & Riera, R. (2021). The shell phenotypic variability of the keyhole limpet Fissurella latimarginata: insights from an experimental approach using a water flow flume. Journal of Molluscan Studies, 87(4). https://doi.org/10.1093/mollus/eyab043
Publisher
Malacological Society of London