Genetic Diversity of the First Baltic Population of Rangia cuneata (Bivalvia: Mactridae)

Abstract

The genetic diversity of the first Baltic population of the bivalve mollusk Rangia cuneata (G.B. Sowerby I, 1831) is studied on the basis of mtDNA COI gene sequences. It is shown that a single population of this alien species with a high level of genetic diversity inhabits the whole Vistula Lagoon. It is assumed that common rangia penetrated to the Vistula Lagoon at the larval stage with ballast waters. The first European R. cuneata population from the North Sea is regarded as the most probable source of introduction. Information on the genetic diversity of population of introduced species may be useful for forecasting of further ways of dispersal of the species.