Monodonta lineata

Monodonta lineata is a marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Trochidae and the order Archaeogastropoda. Although this species is primarily associated with natural coastal ecosystems, its biological activity can exert a significant indirect negative impact on aquaculture and coastal agricultural operations, particularly within mariculture zones.

This mollusk mainly inhabits the intertidal zone. Its primary diet consists of algae and biological films. In artificial environments or near-shore farming facilities where commercial marine species are cultivated, this mollusk competes for substrate and nutrients, effectively acting as a pest of economic importance.

The biology of the species is characterized by high adaptability to tidal cycles. The mollusks move actively in search of food when water levels allow them to traverse rocks and farm infrastructure. Reproduction occurs during warmer periods, and the planktonic larvae facilitate rapid dispersal and colonization of new coastal areas.

The damage caused is primarily manifest in the mechanical degradation of aquaculture infrastructure and the excessive grazing of microflora necessary for the growth of farmed species. In cases of population blooms, Monodonta lineata can clog water intake systems and damage protective netting used in fish farms, leading to substantial economic losses for producers.

Protection and control methods include a comprehensive management strategy:

• Regular mechanical cleaning of cages and farm equipment to remove attached mollusks.
• Application of antifouling coatings to prevent larval settlement.
• Active monitoring of population density during peak breeding seasons.
• Installation of filtration barriers at water intake points to exclude juvenile mollusks from systems.