For species' dynamics highly influenced by environmental conditions, sustainable management for conservation and/or exploitation purposes requires the ability to segregate natural processes from anthropogenic impacts. In this context, identification of phenotypic variations in morphological patterns, and clarification of the mechanisms involved, constitute useful tools to identify adequate management measures from Europe-wide to local conditions. Although such approaches are already used effectively in the management of fish stocks, they are more recent for bivalve stocks, which are also good candidates for such management tools. The current study examines morphological patterns in the Manila clam (Venerupis philippinarum) through morphometric studies of 4... |