Confirmation of the first intronic sequence in the bivalvian mitochondrial genome of (Linnaeus, 1758).

In 2020, the first male-type mitochondrial genome from the clam was published. Apart from the unusual doubly uniparental inheritance of mtDNA, scientists observed a unique (over 4k bp long) extension in the middle of the gene. We have attempted to replicate these data by NGS DNA sequencing and explore further the expression of the long gene.

Next-generation phylogeography of the cockle : Highly heterogeneous genetic differentiation in a lagoon species.

Aim: Coastal lagoons form an intriguing example of fragmented marine habitats. Restricted gene flow among isolated populations of lagoon species may promote their genetic divergence and may thus provide a first step toward speciation. In the present study, the population genetic structure of the lagoon cockle has been investigated to clarify the complex phylogeographic pattern found in previous studies, to localize major genetic breaks, and to discuss their origin and maintenance.

Abnormalities in bivalve larvae from the Puck Bay (Gulf of Gdansk, southern Baltic Sea) as an indicator of environmental pollution.

This study described the occurrence of abnormalities in bivalve larvae from the Puck Bay. Analyses of plankton samples collected in 2012-2013 showed that larval Mytilus trossulus, Mya arenaria, and Cerastoderma glaucum exhibited abnormalities that could indicate adverse environmental impacts. The deformities were mainly in shells, but missing soft tissue fragments and protruding vela were also noted.