Prey selection of the invasive gastropod Rapana venosa (Valenciennes 1846) from the Río de la Plata estuary under laboratory conditions

Abstract

This study investigates the prey selection of the invasive gastropod Rapana venosa under controlled laboratory conditions in the Río de la Plata estuary. The results indicate a preference for the clam Erodona mactroides over the mussel Mytilus edulis, though M. edulis was consumed in larger biomass quantities. These findings align with the optimal foraging theory, emphasizing prey energy profitability and vulnerability. Further research is needed to assess the potential ecological impacts, particularly in areas of limited spatial overlap between predator and prey.