BAKER, Shirley M.*; FAJANS, Jon S.; University of Florida; University of Florida: Feeding rates in the invasive green mussel, Perna viridis; Potential for ecosystem change.

Suspension feeding bivalve molluscs have the capacity to regulate ecosystem function to a large degree. Bivalves as biological invaders have received considerable attention, owing to the success of species like the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha. Invasions by bivalves are particularly striking as a result of their numeric dominance and seston clearing abilities. A new non-indigenous species, the green mussel Perna viridis, was identified in Tampa Bay, Florida, in 1999. Green mussels are now one of the most abundant bivalve species in Tampa Bay and, given their considerable biomass, have the potential to play a significant role in the ecology of the estuary. In this study we examined the clearance rates of green mussels and their selective removal of phytoplankton species. Our objective was to determine the capacity of green mussels to reduce phytoplankton biomass and alter phytoplankton community composition through their feeding activities.