Invasive dreissenid mussels and round gobies: a benthic pathway for the trophic transfer of microcystin

Abstract

In the present preliminary study, the authors identify 2 pathways through which invasive dreissenid mussels can transfer microcystin to higher trophic levels: either directly, through consumption by benthivorous fish such as the round goby; or indirectly, through their biodeposits, which are an important food source for benthic invertebrates. The results suggest that dreissenid mussels represent a potentially important benthic pathway for the food web transfer of microcystin.

Keywords: Benthic-pelagic coupling; Cyanobacteria; Dreissenid mussels; Microcystin; Trophic transfer.