The role of Viviparus contectus (Millet) (Mollusca, Viviparidae) in the sedimentation of suspension and transformation of organic matter in the Tnya River (Ukraine)

Abstract

As active filterers and sedimentators, mollusks Viviparus contectus (Millet) clear water from suspensions in the Tnya River. The sedimentation ability of mollusks is assessed on the basis of experimental studies at three stations using the funneling technique. Mollusks at the age of 3 and 5 years are used. The rate of sedimentation of V. contectus is 7.3 to 13.7 mg/(spec. day) in July 2014. The efficiency of suspended sedimentation is higher in younger individuals. The rate of sedimentation is determined by the total body weight of mollusks; the ratio between these parameters is described by the exponential function. V. contectus contributes to the decrease in the content of organic matter in the water with a rate of 0.055 to 0.069 mg of O₂/(dm³ spec. h), as well as to the enrichment of the near-bottom water layer with organic matter.