Marine Biodiversity Records

Table of Contents - Volume 5 - 2012  

Research Article

First record of the brown mussel (Perna perna) from the European Atlantic coast

Carla R. Lourençoa1 c1, Katy R. Nicastroa1, Ester A. Serrãoa1 and Gerardo I. Zardia1

a1 CCMAR–CIMAR-Laboratório Associado, Universidade do Algarve, Gambelas, 8005-139, Faro, Portugal

Abstract

The occurrence of the brown mussel Perna perna is reported for the first time from the European Atlantic coast, on the southern Portuguese coast. Several specimens of this mytilidae species were identified in exposed rocky intertidal habitats in Vilamoura (37°04′19.70″N 8°07′19.71″W) and Ilha do Farol (36°58′29.38″N 7°51′42.51″W). It is suggested that, under warming climate conditions, this subtropical/tropical species might have extended its geographical distribution from North Africa.

(Received February 27 2012)

(Accepted March 01 2012)

Keywords

Correspondence:

c1 Correspondence should be addressed to: C.R. Lourenço, CCMAR–CIMAR-Laboratório Associado, Universidade do Algarve, Gambelas, 8005-139, Faro, Portugal email: carla.rodrigues.lourenco@gmail.com