The biology and functional morphology of the Southeast Asian mangrove bivalve, Polymesoda (Geloina) erosa (Solander, 1786) (Bivalvia: Corbiculidae)

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Abstract
The Southeast Asian mangrove is inhabited by a number of bivalves one of which, Polymesoda (Geloina) erosa (Solander, 1786), is widely distributed; it occurs on the landward fringe, in fetid pools of water formed at the bases of the mangrove trees. It is covered only by spring tides and at other times is inundated by rainwater draining through the mangrove from the land. G. erosa can withstand long periods of exposure, during which time it can use subterranean water contained in the burrow. Any particles present in this water are taken into the mantle cavity via the pedal gape and so into the alimentary canal. This is an extreme adaptation to a semiterrestrial mode of life. Aerial respiration is also achieved via the mantle margin.The functional morphology of G. erosa is described and related to the animal's life in the mangrove. The morphological adaptations of Geloina are also compared with those of other bivalves, particularly the Dreissenacea to which the Corbiculacea are possibly closely related.

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