First record of Melanoides tuberculatus (Müller, 1774) and Biomphalaria tenagophila (d´Orbigny, 1835) on Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

Small populations of Melanoides tuberculatus (Müller, 1774) and Biomphalaria tenagophila (d´Orbigny, 1835), were found at Vila do Abraão, being the first record of these species to Ilha Grande, Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro. They were probably introduced after 2004, perhaps following release from aquaria. The possible spread of these species to other freshwater habitats in the island, their effects on native snails and links with public health are discussed. The record of M. tuberculatus appears to be the first for a Brazilian insular area. The recent introduction of these species offers a remarkable opportunity to monitor introduced species and to understand the invasion process in an insular stream in southeastern Brazil.