Recent thermal history influences thermal tolerance in freshwater mussel species (Bivalvia: Unionoida)
Understanding species’ temperature tolerances in the context of concurrent environmental stressors is critical because thermal regimes of freshwater ecosystems are changing. We evaluated the critical thermal maximum (CTM) of 3 freshwater mussel species (Alasmidonta varicosa, Elliptio complanata, and Strophitus undulatus) acclimated to 2 temperatures (15 and 25°C) and exposed to 2 aeration treatments (aerated vs unaerated) during CTM testing. Responses varied by species, but mussels acclimated to 25°C generally had a higher CTM than mussels acclimated to 15°C. For E. complanata, the effects of acclimation temperature and aeration were interactive, such that CTM was highest at 15°C but only under aerated conditions. Our results indicate that recent thermal history affects thermal tolerance, combinations of environmental stressors may influence thermal tolerance, and such responses vary among species.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2012 |
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Title | Recent thermal history influences thermal tolerance in freshwater mussel species (Bivalvia: Unionoida) |
DOI | 10.1899/11-025.1 |
Authors | Heather S. Galbraith |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Freshwater Science |
Index ID | 70043978 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Coop Res Unit Leetown |