Specific metabolic features in tissues of the ark clam Anadara kagoshimensis Tokunaga, 1906 (Bivalvia: Arcidae), a Black Sea invader

Abstract

Parameters of the antioxidant system as well as carbohydrate, protein, and energy metabolisms in the tissues of an invader species, the bivalve mollusk Anadara kagoshimensis, are compared. Tissue specificity of the examined parameters is demonstrated. Along with the hepatopancreas and gills, the foot of anadara is shown to be an important metabolic organ with a high metabolism and an antioxidant defense. The content of low molecular weight biological antioxidants and antioxidant enzyme activities are specifically balanced in the examined mollusk tissues. The behavioral, physiological, and biochemical features that have provided successful invasion of this mollusk in the Black Sea–Azov basin are discussed.