Morphometric Variation among Four Local Ruditapes decussatus Populations in Monastir Bay (Eastern Coast, Tunisia)

Abstract

In Tunisia, Monastir bay, extending for 38 km along the eastern coast of Tunisia, harbors different species of bivalves such as the clam Ruditapes decussatus, a species of major socio-economic interest. Despite its importance, no studies have been carried out about the morphology of this mollusc in Monastir bay. Thus, the current study aimed to analyze the shell morphological variations in the European clam Ruditapes decussatus from Monastir Bay coast. The comparison of the shell shape of individuals from HIGHLIGHTS• Ruditapes decussatus from four sites belonging to Monastir bay (Tunisia) was first time analyzed based on morphometry and comparative statistics.• The site of Ksiba was distinguishable from other sites by larger and heavier specimens.• The sub-trapezoidal shape was dominant with small-size classes, in most sites.• The principal component analysis (PCA) revealed different population groups, with two intrapopulation groups for Sokrine site.• Allometric relationships showed highly significant correlation with different growth patterns (positive allometric, negative allometric and isometric).

Clam harvesting in Tunisia: sustainability risks and SDG opportunities

“…Lastly, further morphometric analysis methods and molecular genetic markers can be used to support this species' phenotypic diversity. 31…”