What Do We Know About Non-Native, Invasive, and Transplanted Aquatic Mollusks in South America?

Abstract

Global awareness of introduced species as one of the primary drivers of biodiversity change—causing environmental impacts, and economic and social effects—emphasizesthe need to enhance our understanding of these species. Developing a comprehensivedatabase will enable policymakers to identify global bioinvasion patterns and strengthentheir capacity to manage them effectively. Aquatic mollusks play a crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit, influencing food webs and nutrient cycling, and habitat formation andmodification. They are also the dominant group in aquaculture, contributing significantlyto the economy while also causing economic losses through macrofouling and posinghealth risks. Despite their importance, information on the introduction, establishment, anddispersal of mollusk species in South America remains scarce and is often confined to thegrey literature. With the aim of organizing, increasing, and strengthening the knowledgeBiology 2025, 14, 151 https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020151Biology 2025, 14, 151 2 of 18of non-native and transplanted mollusks in general and aquatic mollusks in particular,29 specialists in the introduced mollusks of South America, from seven countries, havebeen working collaboratively since 2016. Each member contributes expertise, data, andbibliographic resources to build the status of the introduced mollusks in South America and provide critical information to prevent future introductions and transplants. Inaquatic environments, 41 non-native mollusk species and 18 transplanted species havebeen identified. Among them, the bivalve Limnoperna fortunei stands out with the greatesteconomic effect, while the gastropods Lymnaeidae and Thiaridae represent significanthealth concerns. Although this research represents a major step forward, it also highlightschallenges such as the scarcity of taxonomic studies and the limited investigation of vastareas in South America. The information compiled in this review serves as a resource forresearchers, policymakers, and the general public when addressing mollusk bioinvasionsin South America.