Biologia, impactos, características e dispersão geográfica do mexilhão dourado (Limnoperna fortunei) no Brasil.

Abstract

The introduction of exotic species in several aquatic ecosystems is considered one of the main causes of the loss of global biodiversity. Called biological invasion, is a scientifically recognized phenomenon that has been a matter of concern for the Brazilian scientific community, as it has been causing negative economic, ecological, and social consequences. The bioinvasion of exotic mollusks has been configuring in a problem not only for natural ecosystems but also for several human beings in industrial and productive systems. The presence of this invasive animal has become an environmental problem in Brazil, classified as one of the priority invasive species for control since the overpopulation of this animal causes serious problems for the native fauna. Among the processes that reduce biodiversity, we can highlight the competitive exclusion of native species, the predation of natural species, and the alteration in the structure of trophic chains. Thinking about this scenario, the dissertation aimed to carry out a bibliographical review on the golden mussel to evaluate the impact of the mollusk's bio invasion and the geographic survey in the Brazilian watersheds, a survey of new publications was carried out in the databases with scientific documents published in 2002 until 2023. It is expected to describe the current state of the geographic distribution of the mussel in the national scenario for the understanding of its characteristics such as reproduction and feeding in order to propose measures to control populations in Brazil. Brazil has twelve river basins, and in seven of them (Uruguay, South Atlantic, Paraná, Paraguay, São Francisco, Southeast Atlantic, and East Northeast Atlantic) the presence of golden mussel has already been registered. The impacts caused by the golden mussel are of different orders and magnitudes. It causes environmental, psychological, and social impacts harming or even making sustainability unfeasible in various spheres. So far, there is no effective control mechanism for golden mussel. Perhaps in small spaces, it is possible to administer the management and live with the situation. After its introduction, little or almost nothing has been done, not only in Brazil but all over the world.