Meeting Abstract
7.8 Jan. 4 Ecophysiology of the Channeled Apple Snail, Pomacea canaliculata complex, in Florida BERNATIS, J.L.*; BAKER, S.M.; BAKER, P.; WARREN, G.L.; University of Florida; University of Florida; University of Florida; Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission bernatis@ufl.edu
The South American channeled apple snail Pomacea canaliculata, and related species (P. canaliculata complex), are introduced species with populations rapidly expanding across Florida. Possession of both lungs and gills, coupled with the ability to aestivate for several months, gives the snail an advantage in tolerating environmental perturbations. Prior research has focused on controlling the species; therefore, the purpose of this project is threefold and examines the general ecology, physiology, and environmental impacts of the snail. Field studies in Florida have determined that virtually any body of freshwater may serve as a potential habitat. Preliminary physiological results suggest wide ranges in desiccation tolerance (> 90 days), temperature (> 35o C), oxygen (< 50% DO), pH, and salinity. Feeding experiments have demonstrated the potential impact of the snails on ecosystems. Preliminary data indicates that small snail populations (n=10/m2) are capable of regularly consuming 220g of plant material per 24 hours, regardless of prior feeding status. However, consumption fluctuates based on the plant species, demonstrating feeding preferences of the snails. The limited knowledge of the species in their native range and introduction into a different ecological demographic habitat limits the ability to predict the full impact of the species. However, the preliminary data related to physiology and feeding suggests that, while the species may tolerate wide environmental conditions, a major limiting factor is the presence of adequate food.
