Occurrence of the Slipper Limpet, Crepidula fornicata L., in Ireland

Abstract

IN May 1959, during an investigation of the intertidal ecology of the Kenmare River, Co. Kerry, full-grown single individuals of this American gastropod were found to be common below mid-tide level at Kilmakilloge Harbour, a shallow and protected inlet on the southern shore of the estuary. This species is well known as a pest of oyster beds on the eastern and southern shores of England, and is also present in Wales¹, but is believed not to have been recorded previously from Irish waters. Studies on the biology of Crepidula have shown that distribution on ships is the main, if not the only, means of remote dispersal². It is therefore probable that this species has reached Ireland attached to vessels previously laid up in British harbours. As part of the survey, a special search was also made for the Australasian barnacle Elminius modestus Darwin which, though now widespread in Britain³, has in Ireland only been reported from Lough Ine, Co. Cork⁴. However, Elminius was not found anywhere within the Kenmare River, nor was Crepidula noted at other localities.