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Diversity
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Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research
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Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research

A special issue of Diversity (ISSN 1424-2818). This special issue belongs to the section "Freshwater Biodiversity".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 7532

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ioan Sîrbu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Sciences, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 5-7 Raţiu Street, 550012 Sibiu, Romania
Interests: malacology; freshwater ecology; community ecology; statistics; ecological modeling
Prof. Dr. Simone Varandas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Forest Sciences and Landscape Architecture, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
Interests: bioindicators; freshwater ecosystems; freshwater bivalves; freshwater conservation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Martin Österling

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
River Ecology and Management, Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Karlstad University, Universitetsgatan 2, SE-651 88 Karlstad, Sweden
Interests: fish; freshwater mussels; restoration biology in running water

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Freshwaters are under accelerated human pressure, and mollusk communities are among the most sensitive, threatened, and valuable components. Freshwaters are at the extreme end when ranking ecosystems by a multicriterial system, including, but not limited to, their use, functions, requirements, abundance, availability, and threats. They are at the forefront of the global biodiversity crisis as the least abundant, most limiting, most necessary for human well-being, most threatened, and least effectively protected habitats. The causes of imperilment are many, complex, and interacting. Termed "inland islands," freshwaters are prone to changes when altered or disturbed. Freshwater mollusks (gastropods and bivalves) are a crucial component of aquatic ecosystems, providing many services, and are exceptionally threatened with extinction by habitat alteration, biotic interactions, and global change. Yet, despite their importance and precarious conservation status, the knowledge of freshwater mollusks is limited. Moreover, the biology and ecology of freshwater mollusk communities are underdeveloped, understudied, and a relatively small proportion of articles and experts are concerned with this topic. This Special Issue aims to develop and improve our knowledge of freshwater mollusk communities under all conceivable aspects. We welcome studies and articles ranging from case studies to syntheses and reviews on every aspect related to freshwater mollusk communities, such as structure, distribution, changes, dynamics, successions, productivity, relations, invasive species, energetics (patterns of energy flow), diversity, functional traits, environmental genomics, multivariate methods, multimatricial approaches, anthropogenic pressures, responses to and effects of human impact, ecological models, bioindication, monitoring methods, decision-supporting systems, long-term studies, management, conservation, and others.

Dr. Ioan Sîrbu
Prof. Dr. Simone Varandas
Dr. Martin Österling
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Diversity is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2100 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • freshwater mollusks (gastropods, bivalves)
  • biodiversity
  • community ecology
  • biogeography
  • functional traits
  • invasive species
  • human impact
  • multivariate methods
  • bioindication
  • conservation
  • management
  • ecological modeling

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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26 pages, 16976 KiB  
Article
The Quantification of Morphological Variation and Development of Morphology-Based Keys to Identify Species of Fusconaia and Pleurobema (Unionidae) in the Green River, Kentucky, USA
by Miluska Olivera-Hyde, Jess W. Jones and Eric M. Hallerman
Diversity 2025, 17(4), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040298 - 21 Apr 2025
Abstract
We quantified morphological variation among genetically identified specimens of Fusconaia flava, F. subrotunda, Pleurobema cordatum, P. plenum, P. sintoxia, and P. rubrum inhabiting the Green River, Kentucky, species with shells that are morphologically similar to each other and [...] Read more.
We quantified morphological variation among genetically identified specimens of Fusconaia flava, F. subrotunda, Pleurobema cordatum, P. plenum, P. sintoxia, and P. rubrum inhabiting the Green River, Kentucky, species with shells that are morphologically similar to each other and thus difficult to identify. Molecular identifications then were compared with phenotype-based identifications by experts, who on average correctly identified 70% of the specimens. Expert identification of the putative species P. rubrum and P. sintoxia resulted in them usually being identified as the latter. Multi-variable decision tree analysis was conducted to determine the best suite of morphological variables for identifying live mussels and shells to species. Cross-validation error rates for these analyses were 12.6% and 4.14% for live mussels and shells, respectively. Both random forest and decision tree analyses showed the most important variables to be the presence/absence of a sulcus and shell shape (trapezoidal, circular, oval, equilateral triangle, or isosceles triangle). Dichotomous keys for identifying shells and live mussels were developed based on key morphological characteristics readily identifiable in the field, including foot color, beak direction, and beak position relative to the anterior margin. However, a definitive identification of these species may still need to rely on molecular methods, especially for endangered species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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12 pages, 3418 KiB  
Article
Returners and New Arrivals After the Crash: Intermediate Hosts and Global Invaders Dominate Gastropod Fauna of Lake Naivasha, Kenya
by Christian Albrecht, John Kochey Kipyegon, Annett Junginger and Catharina Clewing
Diversity 2025, 17(4), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040265 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
Aquatic alien species (AAS) have had a major impact on freshwater ecosystems, including Lake Naivasha in Kenya. Here, the ecosystem has undergone tremendous changes and multiple species introductions over the past 100 years, and molluscs have experienced a major decline in species diversity. [...] Read more.
Aquatic alien species (AAS) have had a major impact on freshwater ecosystems, including Lake Naivasha in Kenya. Here, the ecosystem has undergone tremendous changes and multiple species introductions over the past 100 years, and molluscs have experienced a major decline in species diversity. The East African Rift Lakes have experienced a steady rise in lake levels since 2010. We investigated the impact of recent ecosystem changes on the lakes’ molluscs by determining the current mollusc diversity and its composition. We also reconstruct the history of faunal change and turnover over the last 100 years and discuss the future of molluscs in the lake and the implications in a One Health context. The combined effects of rising water levels and the decline of the crayfish Procambarus clarkii are likely to be responsible for the resurgence of Lake Naivasha’s mollusc fauna. The current fauna consists of three global invaders of American origin, one of which is new to East Africa (Pseudosuccinea columella) and another of which has only recently begun to spread (Pomacea canaliculata). A further three species are native to Africa, two of which are known from historical records, while one is new to Lake Naivasha (Bulinus forskalii). All native species are of public health (Biomphalaria sudanica) and veterinary health (Bulinus tropicus, Bulinus forskalii) concern. The current biodiversity of molluscs has reached the same level as in historical times, but the species composition is remarkably different. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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24 pages, 2199 KiB  
Article
Impacts of Microplastics, Cadmium, and Their Mixtures on Biochemical Biomarkers in the Freshwater Bivalve Corbicula fluminea (Bivalvia, Corbiculidea)
by Susana Parra, Dércia Santos, Ana Luzio, Edna Cabecinha, Maria José Saavedra, Jesús Gago, Simone Varandas and Sandra Mariza Monteiro
Diversity 2024, 16(12), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16120750 - 6 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1110
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a worldwide contaminant of significant environmental concern due to their persistence, widespread distribution, and toxic potential. These plastic particles are taken up by invertebrates such as bivalves. Previous studies have indicated that MPs can serve as carriers for other contaminants, [...] Read more.
Microplastics (MPs) are a worldwide contaminant of significant environmental concern due to their persistence, widespread distribution, and toxic potential. These plastic particles are taken up by invertebrates such as bivalves. Previous studies have indicated that MPs can serve as carriers for other contaminants, such as heavy metals, thereby increasing their bioavailability to organisms, with unpredictable ecological consequences. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of exposure to MPs, cadmium (Cd), and their mixtures (Mix) in the gills, digestive gland, and gonad of the Asian clam, Corbicula fluminea, assessing the oxidative stress responses, LDH activity, and neurotoxicity over 7, 14, 21, and 30 days. The results show that exposure to MPs and their mixtures with the lowest Cd concentration led to the activation of the first line of antioxidant defenses, especially SOD and CAT, in the gills, digestive gland, and gonads. An increase in GST activity was also observed in the gonads. However, the response of GST activity in the gills and digestive gland was opposite that observed in the gonads. Furthermore, LDH activity exhibited contrasting responses, increasing in the digestive gland and decreasing in the gills and gonads. Exposure to MPs induced AChE activity, which contradicts previous findings. The results provide novel insights into the biological responses occurring in different target organs and shed light on the effects of MPs and their mixtures on C. fluminea. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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19 pages, 7141 KiB  
Article
Diversity of Freshwater Mollusks from Lake Pampulha, Municipality of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
by Paulo Ricardo Silva Coelho, Silvana Carvalho Thiengo, Cristiane Lafetá Furtado de Mendonça, Nathália Moreira Teodoro de Oliveira, Sonia Barbosa dos Santos, Roberta Lima Caldeira and Stefan Michael Geiger
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040193 - 24 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2271
Abstract
The artificially created Lake Pampulha, within the metropolitan area of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, lacks detailed information about its freshwater mollusks, representing a challenge for the assessment and conservation of this ecosystem. In this study, conducted during June and August 2021, we [...] Read more.
The artificially created Lake Pampulha, within the metropolitan area of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, lacks detailed information about its freshwater mollusks, representing a challenge for the assessment and conservation of this ecosystem. In this study, conducted during June and August 2021, we collected specimens on four different occasions and at five sampling points around the lake, using different sampling equipment, such as a shovel and a scoop. During these collections, we identified, enumerated and measured 1538 species of mollusks and additionally examined the presence of trematode larvae. We identified twelve species of fresh water bivalves and gastropods: Biomphalaria straminea, Biomphalaria kuhniana, Biomphalaria occidentalis, Drepanotrema cimex, Pomacea maculata, Stenophysa marmorata, Physa acuta, Gundlachia ticaga, Melanoides tuberculata, Pseudosuccinea columella, Omalonyx matheroni and Corbicula largillierti. Echinostome and strigeocercaria types of larval trematodes were detected in B. straminea. Notably, some species of mollusks have not previously been recorded at Lake Pampulha. The analyses revealed differences in the composition and abundance of species, highlighting the higher number of mollusk species in areas more impacted by human actions. This study expands our understanding of mollusk diversity at Lake Pampulha, and provides valuable data for longitudinal comparisons of water quality and considerations of the conservation of native species. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of choosing appropriate sampling equipment, depending on the research objectives. The presence of invasive species of medical and veterinary relevance as intermediate hosts of parasites reinforces the need for efficient environmental protection strategies to preserve this artificial, aquatic environment widely used by the local population and by tourists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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20 pages, 3675 KiB  
Article
Thermal Threats to Freshwater Mussels: An Empirical Stream Assessment
by Tamara J. Pandolfo, W. Gregory Cope, Daniel M. Weaver and Thomas J. Kwak
Diversity 2024, 16(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010037 - 5 Jan 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2160
Abstract
Freshwater mussels fulfill an important ecological role in aquatic ecosystems, but they currently face many threats, including thermal regime alteration. Thermal transformation of the aquatic environment is associated with climate change, land use alteration, and other pervasive anthropogenic global changes. To enhance our [...] Read more.
Freshwater mussels fulfill an important ecological role in aquatic ecosystems, but they currently face many threats, including thermal regime alteration. Thermal transformation of the aquatic environment is associated with climate change, land use alteration, and other pervasive anthropogenic global changes. To enhance our understanding of ecological thermal impacts, we combined extensive field measurements of temperature in the stream water column and substrate depths (5 and 15 cm) at sites where mussels occur, measures of abundance and species richness for mussels and fish, and thermal tolerance knowledge for mussels and fish to generate a comprehensive assessment of the potential threats mussels face as temperatures continue to rise as a result of global change. Mean summer (June–August 2010–2012) temperatures at mussel-occupied sites in the upper Tar River basin of North Carolina, USA, ranged from 16.2 to 34.7 °C. The mean temperature from the hottest 96 h at each site ranged from 23.5 to 31.5 °C. At 80% of sites, a period of moderate drought coincided with the hottest 96 h period. Temperature threshold exceedance durations indicated that chronic, combined chronic/acute, and acute freshwater mussel thermal tolerance thresholds (i.e., 28 °C, 30 °C, and 33 °C, respectively) based on laboratory exposures of glochidia (larvae) and juveniles were commonly exceeded. Water temperatures exceeded 28 °C for at least 24 h at 55% of sites and for at least 96 h at 35% of sites, and they exceeded 30 °C for at least 24 h at 15% of sites. We quantified a thermal buffering effect of the substrate that may be protective of mussels. There was a mean difference of 0.5 °C between the water column and the upper substrate (5 cm) and a mean difference of 0.9 °C between the water column and the lower substrate (15 cm). Maximum differences of up to 5.5 °C between the water column and the upper substrate and 11.5 °C between the water column and the lower substrate were observed. Our models estimating the relation between the water column and substrate temperatures more realistically characterize ambient temperature exposures and have widespread implications for mussel conservation and climate change risk assessment in similar streams. Freshwater mussels currently exist on the edge of their thermal limits, but their abundance and species richness cannot be explained by temperature patterns alone. Fish species richness was related to the thermal regime, indicating that species interactions may be an important driver of freshwater mussel responses to global change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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Review

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19 pages, 2930 KiB  
Review
The Swedish Fauna of Freshwater Snails—An Overview of Zoogeography and Habitat Selection with Special Attention to Red-Listed Species
by Ted von Proschwitz
Diversity 2025, 17(4), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040251 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 277
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to describe and analyse the present Swedish fauna of freshwater snails, based on material in museum collections, the literature, records in conservation reports and in databases. The Swedish fauna comprises 50 species (42 indigenous and 8 introduced). [...] Read more.
The aim of this paper is to describe and analyse the present Swedish fauna of freshwater snails, based on material in museum collections, the literature, records in conservation reports and in databases. The Swedish fauna comprises 50 species (42 indigenous and 8 introduced). Moreover, 31 out of 50 species belong to the superorder Hygrophila. The species’ zoogeography, ecology and conservation status are highlighted. The species distributions can roughly be classified according to four different geographical groups of patterns. 23 species have their northern limit within or close to the limes norrlandicus, an important biogeographical transition zone in Central Sweden. The history of the exploration of the fauna and groups/species with taxonomical/determination problems are discussed. The six species, which are present in the Swedish National Red List, are discussed in detail. Main threats include the exploitation of Swedish rivers and the changing of insolation in small water bodies due to vegetation alteration, eutrophication and drainage. The threat status of the species in the national Swedish list and the general European list are compared and show a high degree of agreement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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