Epibionts of the scallop Adamussium colbecki (Smith, 1902) in the Ross Sea, Antarctica

Although it is characterized by a patchy distribution, Adamussium colbecki is considered the most important bivalve of Antarctica, mainly in relation to its functional role in the transfer of energy from the water column to the benthos. Here, we compare the epibionts of A. colbecki front three different areas, highlighting the importance of their shells as a natural secondary hard bottom for many taxa. In this way, we show that due to its ability to swim, the scallop may contribute to the dispersion of epibiotic species, and this probably increases their survival. These data amplify the ecological roles of A. colbecki, which, along with its shells, can be considered an important ecosystem engineer in Antarctic communities.