Authors

Marichu P. Fabiosa

Author

Clark Adrian A. Abao

Co-author

Noeme P. Fabiosa

Co-author

Kaent Immanuel N. Uba

Corresponding author

Brackishwater Fisheries Research and Development Center, National Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Lala, Lanao del Norte, 9211 Philippines
Department of Fisheries Science and Technology, School of Marine Fisheries and Technology, Mindanao State University at Naawan, Naawan, Misamis Oriental, 9023

*Corresponding author: *@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Here, we report the first record of the invasive mussel species Mytella strigata Hanley, 1843 in Panguil Bay, southern Philippines confirmed through its conchological features. Mussels appeared in dense mats attached to rocks, wood, and substrate in the intertidal region in the innermost portion of the bay. Locals first noticed the species in late 2018, which, according to them, adversely affected their catches of mangrove crabs Scylla spp. and the Asian hard clam Meretrix meretrix Linnaeus, 1758. There is a need to ascertain the distribution of the species within the bay, investigate socio-ecological and economic impacts, and formulate monitoring, surveillance, and impact mitigation measures.