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 Introduced Species: 2000 Publications

Author: Pastorino, G., Penchaszadeh, P.E., Schejter, L., and Bremec, C.
Title: Rapana venosa (Valenciennes, 1846) (Mollusca : Muricidae): A new gastropod in South Atlantic waters.
Publication: Journal of Shellfish Research 19(2): 897-899, 2000.
© National Shellfisheries Association

Notes: Rapana venosa (Valenciennes 1846) (Gastropoda: Muricidae), a mollusk native to Eastern Asia is reported for the first time in Argentine waters in the north of Bahia Samborombon. During a routine bottom sampling, a female specimen of 97.1 and 76.3 mm shell length and width, respectively, and egg capsules were found approximately on 35.3 degreesS-55.4 degreesW in 13 m of water. The possible way of entrance is discussed. The finding of egg capsules permits the supposition that the introduced population is sexually mature and actively breeding. The presence of banks of mussels (Mytilus edulis platensis) and oysters (Ostrea puelchana), probable prey, together with the occurrence of the egg capsules point out that the development of R. venosa in Argentina could be ecologically and economically important.