New data on Pinctada radiata (Leach, 1814) (Bivalvia: Pteriidae) in the Adriatic Sea

Abstract

      The first recorded population of Pinctada radiata in the Adriatic Sea was observed on the pier in Porto Montenegro marina (Tivat, Montenegro), in August 2016. Numerous individuals inhabited pier walls at a depth of 5 m. The shell height (SH) values for the 15 randomly collected individuals of P. radiata ranged between 32.2 mm and 52.1 mm with an average SH value of 38.3 mm (standard deviation ±6.1). Further surveys in Montenegro will provide information on the establishment of the observed population and what is its impact on local biodiversity.