Chemosymbiotic bivalves from the mud volcanoes of the Gulf of Cadiz, NE Atlantic, with descriptions of new species of Solemyidae, Lucinidae and Vesicomyidae
2011

Chemosymbiotic Bivalves from the Gulf of Cadiz

Sample size: 13 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Graham Oliver, Clara F. Rodrigues, Marina R. Cunha

Primary Institution: National Museum of Wales

Hypothesis

The study aims to provide a taxonomic basis for chemosynthetic bivalves in the Gulf of Cadiz.

Conclusion

The study describes four new species of chemosymbiotic bivalves and highlights a high degree of endemism in the Gulf of Cadiz.

Supporting Evidence

  • Thirteen species of chemosymbiotic bivalves were identified in the Gulf of Cadiz.
  • Four new species were described, indicating high biodiversity.
  • The study highlights the unique ecological settings of mud volcanoes.

Takeaway

Scientists found new types of clams living in special underwater places called mud volcanoes, showing that many of these clams are unique to this area.

Methodology

Samples were collected from 30 sites in the Gulf of Cadiz using various methods including TV-assisted grabs and box-corers.

Limitations

The study is limited by the small sample size and the specific locations of the mud volcanoes sampled.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3897/zookeys.113.1402

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