Corbicula leana

Corbicula_leana_3

Corbicula leana is a species of freshwater bivalve in the family Cyrenidae. This species is native to East Asia and is commonly found in rivers, lakes, and other freshwater habitats.

Description

Corbicula leana is characterized by its small, rounded shell, which typically measures between 20 to 30 millimeters in diameter. The shell is usually yellowish-brown to dark brown in color and has fine concentric ridges. The interior of the shell is smooth and often has a purple or bluish tint.

Habitat

This species thrives in freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, and streams. It prefers sandy or muddy substrates where it can burrow and filter feed. Corbicula leana is known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, including variations in temperature and water quality.

Distribution

Corbicula leana is primarily found in East Asia, including countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. It has also been introduced to other regions, where it can sometimes become an invasive species.

Ecology

As a filter feeder, Corbicula leana plays a significant role in its ecosystem by filtering out plankton and other small particles from the water. This process helps to maintain water quality and clarity. The species is also a food source for various predators, including fish and birds.

Reproduction

Corbicula leana is known for its high reproductive capacity. It is a hermaphroditic species, meaning that individuals possess both male and female reproductive organs. This allows for self-fertilization, although cross-fertilization can also occur. The species produces large numbers of larvae, which are released into the water column and eventually settle to the substrate to grow into adults.

Economic Importance

In some regions, Corbicula leana is harvested for food. The clams are collected and sold in local markets, where they are valued for their taste and nutritional content. However, in areas where the species has been introduced, it can become a pest, clogging water intake pipes and outcompeting native bivalves.

Conservation

While Corbicula leana is not currently considered endangered, its populations can be affected by pollution, habitat destruction, and competition with other species. Conservation efforts focus on monitoring populations and managing habitats to ensure the species' long-term survival.

See also

• Bivalve
• Cyrenidae
• Freshwater ecology
• Invasive species