First record of the invasive dinoflagellate Ceratium furcoides (Levander) Langhans, 1925 in a subtropical coastal freshwater lagoon in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Primeiro registro do dinoflagelado invasor Ceratium furcoides (Levander) Langhans, 1925 em uma lagoa costeira subtropical de água doce no estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil

Abstracts

Abstract  Ceratium is a planktonic dinoflagellate commonly found in temperate continental waters. In recent decades, Ceratium species have been reported in tropical water bodies, where they are considered invasive. These organisms exhibit high dispersal capacity, adaptability, and rapid colonization of new environments. This study reports the first occurrence of Ceratium furcoides in a natural environment in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, specifically in Peri Lake, a coastal freshwater lake in Florianópolis used for public water supply, recreation, and tourism. For species identification, several Ceratium specimens were analyzed focusing on the arrangement of apical plates, a key morphological trait distinguishing C. furcoides from C. hirundinella. The presence of C. furcoides was recorded during monthly zooplankton monitoring of Peri Lake. Ceratium furcoides is often associated with significant ecological impacts, causing alterations in aquatic communities and contributing to water quality degradation. Its uncontrolled proliferation can affect trophic structure, nutrient availability, and compromise local biodiversity. Continuous monitoring and studies correlating the dinoflagellate's occurrence with limnological variables are necessary to elucidate the main factors driving C. furcoides proliferation and to inform management strategies aimed at mitigating potential ecological, social, and economic issues.

Keywords:
bioinvasion; exotic species; phytoplankton; coastal lake