Exploratory Study of Prey Selection by the Invasive Gastropod Rapana venosa (Valenciennes, 1846) in the Río de la Plata Estuary Under Laboratory Conditions

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Abstract
This study explores the prey selection of the invasive gastropod _Rapana venosa_ under controlled laboratory conditions in the Río de la Plata estuary. Under laboratory conditions, the invasive gastropod _Rapana venosa_ consumed more individuals of the clam _Erodona mactroides_ than of the mussel _Mytilus edulis_; although this difference was not statistically significant, _M. edulis_ was consumed in larger biomass quantities. These findings align with optimal foraging theory, emphasizing prey energy profitability and vulnerability. It is important to note that this study constitutes a preliminary exploratory experiment with limited replication, which suggests the need for further research with a higher number of replicates and more varied environmental conditions to draw more robust and generalizable conclusions about the ecological impact of _R. venosa_ in the estuary.

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