Limnoperna fortunei as an invasive biofouling bivalve species in freshwater: a review of its occurrence, biological traits, risks, and control strategies

Concerns have been raised about the significant biofouling and environmental problems caused by the large numbers of Limnoperna fortunei clinging to water intake facilities. This review first provides a summary of the occurrence of L. fortunei in typical regions including China, South America, and Japan. Furthermore, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the biological traits, risks, and control ofL. fortunei. Importantly, the planktonic larval stage is a critical period for the expansion of L. fortunei. Its biofouling process mainly relieson the adhesion of byssus to substrates. Various physical and chemical methods have been proposed and used to control L. fortunei. Among these methods, sodium hypochlorite has been shown to be effective in preventing the adhesion of L. fortunei by dissolving its byssus at much lower concentrations. Overall, effective and environmental-friendly antifouling strategies are still rare, particularly in drinking water treatment systems, and are encouraged to develop in future studies. This review not only provides a comprehensive understanding of L. fortuneibut also helps to guide the prevention and control of L. fortunei.

Automated summary

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the distribution, biological traits, risks, and control methods of Limnoperna fortunei. The planktonic larval stage is identified as a critical period for the expansion of this species, and its biofouling process relies on the adhesion of byssus to substrates. Various physical and chemical methods have been proposed and used to control Limnoperna fortunei, with sodium hypochlorite showing effectiveness in preventing adhesion. However, effective and environmental-friendly antifouling strategies are still lacking, particularly in drinking water treatment systems. This review not only enhances the understanding of Limnoperna fortunei but also provides guidance for prevention and control.