Tracking the spread of an invasive mussel (Mytilidae: Perna viridis)in the southeastern United States

摘要

The green mussel Perna viridis was introduced to Tampa Bay, Florida, in 1998. Since April 2002, we have been conducting surveys to chart the population growth of the mussel and monitor its spread. Three sites within the Bay were chosen as representatives of estuarine, introduction epicenter, and oceanic environments. Monthly collections were made for population density estimates. Densities within the Bay have reached 4,033, 3,675, and 4,117 per square meter, respectively. Coastal sites throughout Florida were visited annually to determine presence or absence of P. viridis. As of January 2004 the range of documented populations has been extended from Naples to Anclote Key on Florida's west coast. Additionally, a new population has been found on the East Coast extending from Ponce de Leon Inlet, Florida, to the mouth of the Savannah River in Georgia.