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Search Results (240)

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Keywords = marine shell

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21 pages, 17819 KB  
Article
Modeling Magma Intrusion-Induced Oxidation: Impact on the Paleomagnetic TRM Signal in Titanomagnetite
by Roman Grachev, Valery Maksimochkin, Ruslan Rytov, Aleksey Tselebrovskiy and Aleksey Nekrasov
Geosciences 2025, 15(10), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15100372 - 24 Sep 2025
Viewed by 198
Abstract
Low-temperature oxidation of titanomagnetite in oceanic basalts distorts the primary thermoremanent magnetization (TRM) signal essential for reconstructing Earth’s magnetic field history, though the specific impact of magma intrusion-induced oxidation on paleointensity preservation remains poorly constrained. This investigation simulates such oxidation processes using a [...] Read more.
Low-temperature oxidation of titanomagnetite in oceanic basalts distorts the primary thermoremanent magnetization (TRM) signal essential for reconstructing Earth’s magnetic field history, though the specific impact of magma intrusion-induced oxidation on paleointensity preservation remains poorly constrained. This investigation simulates such oxidation processes using a novel experimental design involving isothermal annealing (260 °C; 50 µT field; durations 12.5–1300 h) of Red Sea rift basalts (P72/4), employing the Thellier-Coe method to quantify how chemical remanent magnetization (CRM) overprinting affects TRM fidelity under controlled field orientations aligned either parallel or perpendicular to the initial TRM. Results demonstrate two-sloped Arai-Nagata diagrams with reliable TRM preservation below 360 °C but significant alteration artifacts above this threshold. Crucially, field orientation during oxidation critically influences accuracy: parallel configurations maintain fidelity (±3% deviation at Z=0.48), while perpendicular fields introduce systematic biases (38% overestimation at Z=0.15; 20% underestimation at Z>0.48), which is attributable to magnetostatic interactions in core-shell grain structures. These findings establish that paleointensity reliability in basalt prone to low-temperature oxidation depends fundamentally on the alignment between oxidation-era magnetic fields and primary TRM direction, necessitating stringent sample selection and directional constraints in marine paleomagnetic research to mitigate CRM-TRM interference. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geophysics)
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20 pages, 3324 KB  
Review
Changing Tastes: A Review of Later Prehistoric and Norse-Period Marine Mollusc Exploitation in Scotland’s Western Isles
by Matt Law and Jennifer R. Jones
Quaternary 2025, 8(3), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/quat8030049 - 9 Sep 2025
Viewed by 471
Abstract
This paper examines the exploitation of marine molluscs in the Western Isles of Scotland, from the Bronze Age to Norse periods (2500 BCE–1266 CE). Through analysis of shell assemblages from thirteen archaeological sites, we investigate changing shellfish exploitation practices across time and space. [...] Read more.
This paper examines the exploitation of marine molluscs in the Western Isles of Scotland, from the Bronze Age to Norse periods (2500 BCE–1266 CE). Through analysis of shell assemblages from thirteen archaeological sites, we investigate changing shellfish exploitation practices across time and space. We consider whether these variations reflect cultural preferences, local availability and environments, or evidence of unsustainable harvesting practices. The research examines not only dietary contributions but also explores potential non-food uses of shells, as well as providing insights into coastal environment exploitation. While limpets (Patella spp.) remained consistently important throughout much of prehistory, there was a notable shift toward periwinkles (Littorina littorea), beginning in the Late Iron Age and continuing into the Norse period. This transition appears to reflect a combination of cultural preferences and local ecological availability rather than simple resource depletion. The study highlights the value of standardised methodological approaches to shell analysis and the importance of considering individual and community agency in the interpretation of zooarchaeological assemblages. Full article
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28 pages, 5175 KB  
Article
Buckling Characteristics of Bio-Inspired Helicoidal Laminated Composite Spherical Shells Under External Normal and Torsional Loads Subjected to Elastic Support
by Mohammad Javad Bayat, Amin Kalhori, Masoud Babaei and Kamran Asemi
Buildings 2025, 15(17), 3165; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15173165 - 3 Sep 2025
Viewed by 560
Abstract
Spherical shells exhibit superior strength-to-geometry efficiency, making them ideal for industrial applications such as fluid storage tanks, architectural domes, naval vehicles, nuclear containment systems, and aeronautical and aerospace components. Given their critical role, careful attention to the design parameters and engineering constraints is [...] Read more.
Spherical shells exhibit superior strength-to-geometry efficiency, making them ideal for industrial applications such as fluid storage tanks, architectural domes, naval vehicles, nuclear containment systems, and aeronautical and aerospace components. Given their critical role, careful attention to the design parameters and engineering constraints is essential. The present paper investigates the buckling responses of bio-inspired helicoidal laminated composite spherical shells under normal and torsional loading, including the effects of a Winkler elastic medium. The pre-buckling equilibrium equations are derived using linear three-dimensional (3D) elasticity theory and the principle of virtual work, solved via the classical finite element method (FEM). The buckling load is computed using a nonlinear Green strain formulation and a generalized geometric stiffness approach. The shell material employed in this study is a T300/5208 graphite/epoxy carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite. Multiple helicoidal stacking sequences—linear, Fibonacci, recursive, exponential, and semicircular—are analyzed and benchmarked against traditional unidirectional, cross-ply, and quasi-isotropic layups. Parametric studies assess the effects of the normal/torsional loads, lamination schemes, ply counts, polar angles, shell thickness, elastic support, and boundary constraints on the buckling performance. The results indicate that quasi-isotropic (QI) laminate configurations exhibit superior buckling resistance compared to all the other layup arrangements, whereas unidirectional (UD) and cross-ply (CP) laminates show the least structural efficiency under normal- and torsional-loading conditions, respectively. Furthermore, this study underscores the efficacy of bio-inspired helicoidal stacking sequences in improving the mechanical performance of thin-walled composite spherical shells, exhibiting significant advantages over conventional laminate configurations. These benefits make helicoidal architectures particularly well-suited for weight-critical, high-performance applications in aerospace, marine, and biomedical engineering, where structural efficiency, damage tolerance, and reliability are paramount. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Mechanics Analysis of Composite Structures)
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22 pages, 5791 KB  
Review
Review of Age Estimation Techniques and Growth Models for Shelled Organisms in Marine Animal Forests
by Ömerhan Dürrani, Çağdaş Can Cengiz, Halyna Gabrielczak, Esra Özcan, Madona Varshanidze, Genuario Belmonte and Kadir Seyhan
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(9), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13091693 - 2 Sep 2025
Viewed by 587
Abstract
Marine shelled organisms exhibit diverse growth strategies shaped by species-specific traits and environmental conditions that critically influence their ecological roles, particularly within Marine Animal Forests (MAF), which are structurally complex habitats and biodiversity-rich habitats. This review compiles and compares empirical growth data for [...] Read more.
Marine shelled organisms exhibit diverse growth strategies shaped by species-specific traits and environmental conditions that critically influence their ecological roles, particularly within Marine Animal Forests (MAF), which are structurally complex habitats and biodiversity-rich habitats. This review compiles and compares empirical growth data for 16 bivalve and gastropod species across seven families, classified as full MAF contributors (Pinna nobilis, Flexopecten glaber, Pecten maximus, and Placopecten magellanicus), partial MAF contributors (Cerastoderma edule, C. glaucum, Chamelea gallina, Ruditapes philippinarum, Mercenaria mercenaria, Panopea generosa, Anadara kagoshimensis, A. inaequivalvis, and Tegillarca granosa), and ecologically relevant non-MAF species (Buccinum undatum, Hexaplex trunculus, and Rapana venosa). Age estimation methods included direct techniques, such as shell growth ring and opercular annulus analysis, alongside indirect approaches, such as length-frequency analysis, stable isotope profiling, and mark–recapture studies. Growth trajectories were modelled using von Bertalanffy growth function (VBGF) parameters to estimate the shell size from ages 1 to 4. Based on these estimates, species were categorised into slow, moderate, fast, and exceptional growth groups. These classifications were further explored through hierarchical clustering that grouped species according to their VBGF-derived growth values, revealing consistent and contrasting life history strategies. This comparative analysis should enhance the understanding of molluscan growth dynamics and support the conservation and management of MAF-associated ecosystems by informing restoration planning, guiding species selection, and contributing to evidence-based policy development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Biology)
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30 pages, 723 KB  
Review
Exploring the Molluscan Microbiome: Diversity, Function, and Ecological Implications
by Tsireledzo Goodwill Makwarela, Nimmi Seoraj-Pillai and Tshifhiwa Constance Nangammbi
Biology 2025, 14(8), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14081086 - 20 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 892
Abstract
Mollusks are among the most ecologically and economically significant invertebrates; yet, their associated microbiomes remain understudied relative to those of other metazoans. This scoping review synthesizes the current literature on the diversity, composition, functional roles, and ecological implications of molluscan microbiomes, with an [...] Read more.
Mollusks are among the most ecologically and economically significant invertebrates; yet, their associated microbiomes remain understudied relative to those of other metazoans. This scoping review synthesizes the current literature on the diversity, composition, functional roles, and ecological implications of molluscan microbiomes, with an emphasis on three major groups: gastropods, bivalves, and cephalopods. Drawing on studies from terrestrial, freshwater, and marine systems, we identified the dominant bacterial phyla, including Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes, and explored how microbiota vary across different habitats, diets, tissue types, and host taxonomies. We examined the contribution of molluscan microbiomes to host functions, including digestion, immune modulation, stress responses, and nutrient cycling. Particular attention was given to the role of microbiota in shell formation, pollutant degradation, and adaptation to environmental stressors. The review also evaluated microbial interactions at different developmental stages and under aquaculture conditions. Factors influencing microbiome assembly, such as the host’s genetics, life history traits, and environmental exposure, were mapped using conceptual and graphical tools. Applications of molluscan microbiome research in aquaculture, conservation biology, and environmental biomonitoring are highlighted. However, inconsistencies in the sampling methods, taxonomic focus, and functional annotations limit the generalizability across taxa. We identify key knowledge gaps and propose future directions, including the use of meta-omics, standardized protocols, and experimental validation to deepen insights. By synthesizing emerging findings, this review contributes to a growing framework for understanding mollusk–microbiome interactions and their relevance to host fitness and ecosystem health. It further establishes the importance of mollusks as model systems for advancing microbiome science. Full article
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22 pages, 5745 KB  
Article
Species-Specific Element Accumulation in Mollusc Shells: A Framework for Trace Element-Based Marine Environmental Biomonitoring
by Sergey V. Kapranov, Larisa L. Kapranova, Elena V. Gureeva, Vitaliy I. Ryabushko, Juliya D. Dikareva and Sophia Barinova
Water 2025, 17(16), 2407; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17162407 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 692
Abstract
Mollusc shells serve as valuable biogeochemical archives of natural or anthropogenic processes occurring in the aquatic environment throughout the life of the molluscs. One such process is trace element pollution, which can be assessed by analyzing the elemental composition of mollusc shells. However, [...] Read more.
Mollusc shells serve as valuable biogeochemical archives of natural or anthropogenic processes occurring in the aquatic environment throughout the life of the molluscs. One such process is trace element pollution, which can be assessed by analyzing the elemental composition of mollusc shells. However, different mollusc species accumulate elements in their shells from the aquatic environment at varying concentrations, and specific patterns of this accumulation remain largely unknown. In the present study, we measured the concentrations of 33 elements in the shells of five commercially important Black Sea molluscs, all collected from the same site, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The species were ranked according to the number of elements with the highest concentrations in their shells as follows: Crassostrea gigas (9) = Rapana venosa (9) = Anadara kagoshimensis (9) > Flexopecten glaber ponticus (4) > Mytilus galloprovincialis (2). Cluster analysis of Pearson’s coefficients of correlation of elemental concentrations in the molluscan shells revealed significant separation of C. gigas, F. glaber ponticus, and M. galloprovincialis. Multivariate ordination analyses allowed the accurate classification of >92.3% of shell samples using as few as four elements (Fe, As, Sr, and I). Linear discriminant analysis revealed the probability of separation of all species based on the concentrations of these elements in their shells being not lower than 79%. The applied multivariate approach based on the analysis of four base elements in shells can help not only in the taxonomic identification of molluscs, but also, upon appropriate calibration, in monitoring medium-term dynamics of trace elements in the aquatic environment. Full article
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32 pages, 10173 KB  
Article
Field-Calibrated Nonlinear Finite Element Diagnosis of Localized Stern Damage from Tugboat Collision: A Measurement-Driven Forensic Approach
by Myung-Su Yi and Joo-Shin Park
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1523; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081523 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 486
Abstract
This study conducts a high-resolution forensic evaluation of stern structural damage resulting from a tugboat collision during berthing, integrating real-world measurement data with calibrated nonlinear finite element analysis. Based on field-acquired deformation geometry and residual dent profiles at Frame 76, five distinct collision [...] Read more.
This study conducts a high-resolution forensic evaluation of stern structural damage resulting from a tugboat collision during berthing, integrating real-world measurement data with calibrated nonlinear finite element analysis. Based on field-acquired deformation geometry and residual dent profiles at Frame 76, five distinct collision scenarios varying in impact orientation, contact area, and load path were simulated using shell-based nonlinear plastic analysis. Particular attention is given to comparing the plastic equivalent strain (PEEQ), von-Mises stress fields, and residual deformation contours at Point A—the critical zone identified from damage surveys. Among the five cases, Case-2, defined by a vertically eccentric external impact, demonstrated the highest plastic strain intensity (PEEQ > 2.0%), the sharpest post-yield drops in stiffness, and the closest match to the residual dent profile observed in the actual structure. The integrated correlation between field damage and some of the results (strain, stress, and deformed shape) enabled clear identification of the most probable accident mechanism with engineering accuracy. This study proposes a validated, measurement-calibrated nonlinear finite element analysis framework to diagnose stern damage from tugboat collisions, enhancing repair decision-making and structural safety assessment. Such a calibrated forensic strategy enhances the reliability of structural safety predictions in marine collision incidents and supports eco-friendly rescue engineering by minimizing unnecessary structural renewal through precise damage localization. The proposed approach establishes a new benchmark for scenario-driven collision assessment, particularly relevant to sustainable, automation-compatible, and damage-tolerant ship design practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Marine Mechanical and Naval Engineering)
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20 pages, 5041 KB  
Review
Aquatic Biomass-Based Carbon Dots: A Green Nanostructure for Marine Biosensing Applications
by Ahmed Dawood, Mohsen Ghali, Laura Micheli, Medhat H. Hashem and Clara Piccirillo
Clean Technol. 2025, 7(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol7030064 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 785
Abstract
Aquatic biomass—ranging from fish scales and crustacean shells to various algae species—offers an abundant, renewable source for carbon dot (CD) synthesis, aligning with circular economy principles. This review highlights recent studies for valorizing aquatic biomass into high-performance carbon-based nanomaterials—specifically aquatic biomass-based carbon dots [...] Read more.
Aquatic biomass—ranging from fish scales and crustacean shells to various algae species—offers an abundant, renewable source for carbon dot (CD) synthesis, aligning with circular economy principles. This review highlights recent studies for valorizing aquatic biomass into high-performance carbon-based nanomaterials—specifically aquatic biomass-based carbon dots (AB-CDs)—briefly summarizing green synthesis approaches (e.g., hydrothermal carbonization, pyrolysis, and microwave-assisted treatments) that minimize environmental impact. Subsequent sections highlight the varied applications of AB-CDs, particularly in biosensing (including the detection of marine biotoxins), environmental monitoring of water pollutants, and drug delivery systems. Physically AB-CDs show unique optical and physicochemical properties—tunable fluorescence, high quantum yields, enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and surface bio-functionalization—that make them ideal for a wide array of applications. Overall, the discussion underlines the significance of this approach; indeed, transforming aquatic biomass into carbon dots can contribute to sustainable nanotechnology, offering eco-friendly solutions in sensing, environmental monitoring, and therapeutics. Finally, current challenges and future research directions are discussed to give a perspective of the potential of AB-CDs; the final aim is their integration into multifunctional, real-time monitoring and therapeutic systems—for sustainable nanotechnology innovations. Full article
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21 pages, 2799 KB  
Article
Structural Integrity Assessments of an IMO Type C LCO2 Cargo Tank
by Joon Kim, Kyu-Sik Park, Inhwan Cha and Joonmo Choung
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081479 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 567
Abstract
With the rise of carbon capture and storage, liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2) has emerged as a promising medium for large-scale marine transport. This study evaluates the structural integrity of an IMO Type C cargo tank for a medium-range LCO2 carrier [...] Read more.
With the rise of carbon capture and storage, liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2) has emerged as a promising medium for large-scale marine transport. This study evaluates the structural integrity of an IMO Type C cargo tank for a medium-range LCO2 carrier under four conditions: ultimate limit state, accidental limit state, hydrostatic pressure test, and fatigue limit state, based on IGC Code and classification rules. Seventeen load cases were analyzed using finite element methods with multi-step loading to ensure stability. The highest stress occurred at the pump dome–shell junction due to geometric discontinuities, but all stress and buckling criteria were satisfied. The fatigue damage from wave-induced loads was negligible, with low-cycle fatigue from loading/unloading operations governing the fatigue life, which exceeded 31,000 years. The findings confirm the tank’s structural robustness and its suitability for safe, efficient medium-pressure LCO2 transport. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in the Analysis and Design of Marine Structures)
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19 pages, 2677 KB  
Article
Role of StAR Gene in Sex Steroid Hormone Regulation and Gonadal Development in Ark Shell Scapharca broughtonii
by Wenjing Wang, Zhihong Liu, Huaying Zhang, Zheying Gao, Sudong Xia, Xiujun Sun, Liqing Zhou, Zhuanzhuan Li, Peizhen Ma and Biao Wu
Biology 2025, 14(8), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080925 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 862
Abstract
This study elucidates the role of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) in sex steroid hormone dynamics and the gonadal development of the commercially important marine bivalve ark shell Scapharca broughtonii. The sequence of the StAR gene was obtained and [...] Read more.
This study elucidates the role of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) in sex steroid hormone dynamics and the gonadal development of the commercially important marine bivalve ark shell Scapharca broughtonii. The sequence of the StAR gene was obtained and verified from the transcriptome of ark shell, then the tissue localization and expression pattern during the gonad development of the StAR gene were detected by in situ hybridization and quantitative real-time PCR, respectively. Additionally, the concentrations of three critical sex steroid hormones (progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol) were measured throughout gonadal development using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that the length of the coding region of StAR was 1446 bp, encoding 481 amino acids. The results of qRT-PCR showed that the expression of the StAR gene varied with gonadal development, increased from the early active stage to the development stage, and decreased from the mature stage to the spent stage. Notably, the expression level in ovaries was higher than that in testes, suggesting the potential involvement of StAR in sex differentiation and gonadal development. Additionally, the results indicated that progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol accounted for 80%, 10%, and 10% of the total hormone content in the gonads, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed a highly significant strong positive correlation between progesterone/estradiol levels and StAR gene expression, demonstrating that StAR serves as a key regulator in sex steroid hormone biosynthesis. These findings provide crucial molecular evidence for StAR-mediated steroidogenesis in bivalve reproduction, offering fundamental insights into invertebrate endocrinology. Full article
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25 pages, 4764 KB  
Article
Biogenic Synthesis of Calcium-Based Powders from Marine Mollusk Shells: Comparative Characterization and Antibacterial Potential
by Adriana-Gabriela Schiopu, Mihai Oproescu, Alexandru Berevoianu, Raluca Mărginean, Laura Ionașcu, Viorel Năstasă, Andra Dinache, Paul Mereuță, Kim KeunHwan, Daniela Istrate, Adriana-Elena Bălan and Stefan Mira
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3331; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143331 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 663
Abstract
Marine mollusk shells are a promising renewable source of calcium-based materials, offering a sustainable alternative for their synthesis. In this study, five types of marine shells—Chamelea gallina, Mya arenaria, Rapana venosa, Mytilus edulis, and Pecten maximus—were calcined [...] Read more.
Marine mollusk shells are a promising renewable source of calcium-based materials, offering a sustainable alternative for their synthesis. In this study, five types of marine shells—Chamelea gallina, Mya arenaria, Rapana venosa, Mytilus edulis, and Pecten maximus—were calcined at 900 °C for 2 h. The resulting powders were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, PSD, and zeta potential analyses. XRD confirmed the dominant presence of CaO, with residual calcite and portlandite. FTIR spectra supported these findings, indicating the decomposition of carbonate phases and the formation of Ca–O bonds. SEM imaging revealed species-specific microstructures ranging from lamellar and wrinkled textures to compact aggregates, while particle size distributions varied from 15 to 37 μm. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed a two-step decomposition process for all samples, with significant species-dependent differences in mass loss and conversion efficiency, highlighting the influence of biogenic origin on the thermal stability and CaO yield of the resulting powders. Zeta potential measurements showed low colloidal stability, with the best performance found in Rapana venosa and Pecten maximus calcinated samples. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using a direct contact method against Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis. All samples exhibited complete inactivation of E. coli, regardless of exposure time, while E. faecalis required prolonged contact (3.3 h) for full inhibition. The results highlight the potential of biogenic CaCO3 and CaO powders as functional, antimicrobial materials suitable for environmental and biomedical applications. This study underscores the viability of marine shell waste valorization within a circular economy framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
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31 pages, 40778 KB  
Article
Crystal Organisation of Muscle Attachment Sites of Bivalved Marine Organisms: A Juxtaposition Between Brachiopod and Bivalved Mollusc Shells
by Sebastian Hoerl, Erika Griesshaber, Daniel Weller, Shahrouz Amini, Verena Häussermann, Maria A. Bitner, Klaus Achterhold, Franz Pfeiffer and Wolfgang W. Schmahl
Crystals 2025, 15(7), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15070649 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 554
Abstract
The movement of valves of bivalved invertebrates is enabled through the action of muscles and the interplay between the muscles and the hinge ligament. The muscles that move the valves attach to their internal surface. To promote the structural integrity at the mechanically [...] Read more.
The movement of valves of bivalved invertebrates is enabled through the action of muscles and the interplay between the muscles and the hinge ligament. The muscles that move the valves attach to their internal surface. To promote the structural integrity at the mechanically mismatched interfaces, a specific crystal microstructure and texture are present at the muscle attachment sites. These are different from the crystal microstructure and texture of the rest of the valves. We present here for modern two- and three-layered brachiopod shells (Magellania venosa, Liothyrella neozelanica and Gryphus vitreus) the mode of crystal organisation at sites of adductor and diductor muscle attachments (i) relative to the microstructure and texture that forms the other sections of the valves and (ii) relative to crystal organisation of muscle attachment sites of bivalved invertebrates of other phyla, namely, species of the class Bivalvia. We discuss similarities/differences in Ca-carbonate phase, microstructure and texture between rhynchonellate brachiopods and bivalves, and discuss whether the Ca-carbonate crystal organisation of muscle attachment sites is convergent for bivalved marine organisms. We show significant differences in muscle attachment site architecture and highlight the different structural solutions developed by nature for shells of marine organisms that serve the same purpose. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineralogical Crystallography and Biomineralization)
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13 pages, 2302 KB  
Article
Mytilus galloprovincialis as a Natural Reservoir of Vibrio harveyi: Insights from GFP-Tagged Strain Tracking
by Arkaitz Almaraz, Flor O. Uriarte, María González-Rivacoba, Inés Arana, Itziar Arranz-Veiga, Beñat Zaldibar and Maite Orruño
Pathogens 2025, 14(7), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14070687 - 13 Jul 2025
Viewed by 2614
Abstract
Vibrios are widespread in marine environments, and their persistence is often linked to natural reservoirs such as filter-feeding bivalves. This study investigated the capacity of the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, to act as a reservoir of Vibrio harveyi using a GFP-tagged strain [...] Read more.
Vibrios are widespread in marine environments, and their persistence is often linked to natural reservoirs such as filter-feeding bivalves. This study investigated the capacity of the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, to act as a reservoir of Vibrio harveyi using a GFP-tagged strain in controlled experiments. Mussels (shell length 4–6 cm) were exposed to V. harveyi gfp in estuarine and seawater at 12 °C and 20 °C over six days. Bacterial accumulation in gills, digestive gland, and gonads, as well as in feces and pseudofeces, was quantified, and the immune response following microbial challenge was assessed by histopathological analysis. Mussels actively removed V. harveyi from the water, but not completely. Vibrios were rapidly accumulated in organs, with the highest densities in the digestive gland (up to 107–108 CFU g−1), and substantial bacterial loads detected in biodeposits (1.55–3.77 × 107 CFU g−1). Salinity had a greater effect than temperature on bacterial accumulation, with consistently higher counts in seawater assays. Concurrently with bacterial accumulation, mussels activated their immune system, as evidenced by the detection of granulocytomas and hemocytic infiltrations. Overall, these results demonstrate that M. galloprovincialis accumulates V. harveyi in tissues and biodeposits, serving as a natural reservoir for this bacterium. Full article
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20 pages, 1822 KB  
Review
Pinna nobilis, the Vanishing Giant: A Comprehensive Review on the Decline of a Mediterranean Icon
by Ilenia Azzena, Chiara Locci, Noemi Pascale, Ilaria Deplano, Riccardo Senigaglia, Fabio Scarpa, Marco Casu and Daria Sanna
Animals 2025, 15(14), 2044; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15142044 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1041
Abstract
This review addresses the critical conservation challenges faced by Pinna nobilis, the noble pen shell, a keystone umbrella species in Mediterranean marine ecosystems. Since 2016, the species has experienced catastrophic population declines due to mass mortality events likely driven by protozoan, bacterial, [...] Read more.
This review addresses the critical conservation challenges faced by Pinna nobilis, the noble pen shell, a keystone umbrella species in Mediterranean marine ecosystems. Since 2016, the species has experienced catastrophic population declines due to mass mortality events likely driven by protozoan, bacterial, and viral infections. Despite these severe circumstances, small resilient populations persist in select estuaries and coastal lagoons across the Mediterranean, offering potential for recovery. We provide a comprehensive overview on research dedicated to Pinna nobilis’ biology, genetic variation, disease dynamics, and environmental factors influencing its survival, with a focus on refugia where populations still endure. Remarkably, recent studies have revealed signs of resistance in certain individuals and the potential for hybridisation with Pinna rudis. In this context, the possible impact of the increasing occurrence of hybridisation between Pinna nobilis and Pinna rudis on the conservation of their genetic diversity should be carefully considered. This review highlights the importance of ongoing conservation efforts including habitat restoration, protection of remaining populations, assessment of past and present genetic variability, and the development of captive breeding programmes. We aim to elucidate the need for continued studies on Pinna nobilis’ biodiversity, particularly its evolutionary dynamics, genetic makeup, and the interplay of environmental variables influencing its survival and persistence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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18 pages, 5446 KB  
Article
At-Sea Measurement of the Effect of Ship Noise on Mussel Behaviour
by Soledad Torres-Guijarro, David Santos-Domínguez, Jose M. F. Babarro, Laura García Peteiro and Miguel Gilcoto
Sensors 2025, 25(13), 3914; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25133914 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 482
Abstract
Anthropogenic underwater noise is an increasing form of pollution that negatively affects biota. The effect of this pollutant on many marine species is still largely unknown, especially those that are more sensitive to particle motion than to sound pressure. In these cases, experiments [...] Read more.
Anthropogenic underwater noise is an increasing form of pollution that negatively affects biota. The effect of this pollutant on many marine species is still largely unknown, especially those that are more sensitive to particle motion than to sound pressure. In these cases, experiments at sea are necessary, due to the difficulty of recreating the particle movement of a real acoustic field under laboratory conditions. This work aims to contribute to the knowledge of the effect of ship noise on the behaviour of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis), performing measurements at sea on a real mussel cultivation raft for the first time. The study is carried out on cluster-forming individuals living in the rafts where they are cultivated. Their behaviour is monitored by means of valvometry systems, which measure the magnitude of shell opening using a High-Frequency Non-Invasive (HFNI) system. Simultaneously, the acoustic field generated by the abundant traffic in the area is measured. The results show cause-and-effect relationships between ship noise and valve closure events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sensing)
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