Population Structure of Codium amplivesiculatum (Chlorophyta) Associated with Rhodolith Beds from the Southwestern Gulf of California

doi:2008.23.2.141

Algae > Volume 23(2); 2008 > Article

Algae 2008;23(2): 141-150. doi: https://doi.org/10.4490/algae.2008.23.2.141

Rafael Riosmena-Rodríguez^* and Elena Holguín-Acosta

Programa de Investigación en Botánica Marina, Departamento de Biología Marina, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, Apartado postal 19-B, La Paz B.C.S. 23080 México.Tel Int. 52-612-1238800 ext. 4812, FAX Int. 52-612-1280880

*Corresponding Author

Email: riosmena@uabcs.mx

ABSTRACT

Populations of Codium amplivesiculatum were found in association with rhodolith beds. We present population trends of C. amplivesiculatum from surveys conducted in the southwestern Gulf of California based on monthly sampling from June 1999 to August 2000. Surveys were conducted at 2 sites in the San Lorenzo Channel at depths of 8 - 12 m. The parameters measured were percent cover, biomass and structure in relation to size of the thalli. From each thallus the following measurements were taken: length and diameter, proportion of each thallus with reproductive structures and the degree of fragmentation (measured as number of small thalli). Mean biomass and cover varied seasonally with the maximum (1036.6 g m?2 and 100% cover) present in June 2000 and the minimum in winter (0 g m?2 and 0% cover). The longest fronds (3 m) occurred during July 1999 and August 2000, while the maximum diameters of 1.0 cm were present during October and November 1999. There were no significant linear relationships between length and diameter of the fronds, suggesting independent growth. Reproductive structures were common in June and July 1999 with monoic and dioic thalli present. Most fronds were monoic, and this is the first record of this feature for this species. Fragmentation occurred in September, and may be associated with stress from early gametangial reproduction and the combination of high temperatures and low nutrients. A hypothetical life cycle for the species is presented.

Key words: Codium, Gulf of California, morphology, population structure, reproduction