Biological control of Biomphalaria glabrata, the intermediate host of schistosomes, by Marisa cornuarietis in ponds of Guadeloupe: long-term impact on the local snail fauna and aquatic flora

摘要: Abstract The efficiency of Marisa cornuarietis , a Venezuelan freshwater prosobranch was tested against Biomphalaria glabrata pulmonate snail which plays the role intermediate host human schistosomes in Caribbean area. M. introduced to 15 experimental ponds Guadeloupe, while control were left unchanged. Populations all species molluscs as well representative plant followed for 13 subsequent years ponds. B. rapidly disappeared from sites, probably because consumed that constitute its most favorable habitat. Importantly, no other mollusc affected by presence . Moreover, remained sites introduction only and did not spread. This therefore showed little invasive capabilities compared possible agents. Because metapopulation dynamics, occurrence may decrease where competitors are introduced, but also without competitors, lowered overall colonization rates. We discuss importance this effect various including straminea Melanoides tuberculata explaining long-term collapse Guadeloupe over last two decades. study shows is very efficient agent.