The density, population size-structure, and fecundity of the exotic snail
Potamopyrgus antipodarum are described, for a period of
two years, on two shores subject to different levels of disturbance in Lake
Purrumbete. The population dynamics of
Potamopyrgus antipodarum showed the same seasonal
pattern in the numbers of embryos carried per individual female in both years,
but seasonal patterns in density and potential reproductive output of the
population differed between shores. Densities of
Potamopyrgus antipodarum were high, with a trend for
highest densities to occur in spring and summer. The population consisted
almost entirely of females, which is indicative of a parthenogenic mode of
reproduction. Fecundity was high, with the number of embryos carried per
female peaking in spring. In summer, the population was dominated by small
individuals, but some small snails were present at all times of the year.
Potamopyrgus antipodarum was found to be a very
successful invader of Lake Purrumbete, with high densities, high fecundity,
parthenogenesis and the presence of embryos throughout the year contributing
to this success.