During the research planned in the LIFE REEF project, a large number of invasive Atlantic rangia Rangia cuneata was found in the Gulf of Riga, which until now has only been found in open waters in Latvia - in the port of Liepaja and Pavilosta. Early detection and investigation of invasive species allows for faster response and helps reduce potential ecological damage to native species.
"This species was first detected in European waters in 2005 in Antwerp, Belgium. It probably came to us by ship. The presence of Atlantic rangia in the Gulf of Riga raises concerns about their possible impact on the local ecosystem, potentially affecting nutrient cycles in the bay. Although the Atlantic rangia plays a role in filtering the water and providing habitats for other organisms, their arrival can to affect the delicate balance of the Gulf of Riga. In addition, as invasive species, they can compete with native mussels for food resources. This discovery encourages additional monitoring and research of marine invasive species in order to manage the spread of invasive species and protect the marine ecosystem," says Solvita Strāķe, a researcher at the Latvian Institute of Hydroecology, a partner of the LIFE REEF project.
Studying the distribution of invasive species helps to implement effective management of these species. Therefore, the Nature Conseervation Agency invites everyone to report the finding of Atlantic clam shells in the "Others" section of the website www.invazivs.lv. The obtained data will be used in the planning and implementation of measures to limit the spread of invasive species, in scientific research, as well as in the preparation of various reports and reports.
Atlantic rangia have a very thick and durable shell (4-5 cm), their natural homeland is the salty waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic coast of North America, where fresh water and salt water mix. In their natural environment, they form numerically large populations. The salty conditions of the Gulf of Riga are ideal for this species. Although adult specimen can withstand a wider range of temperature and water salinity, their eggs and larvae require a water temperature of 8-32°C for successful development.
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