Algae. 1999; 14(2): 133-136.

Salinity Reduction Induces Spermatial Release in Some Cultured Red Algae

D. L. McBride, J. A. West

College of the Rockies, Cranbrook, School of Botany, University of Melbourne

Bostrychia montagnei, B. moritziana and B. pinnata showed a rapid release of spermatia (>10 spm/stichidium/sec) when subjected to salinity reduction (20,10, 0 ppt) from 30 ppt. Bostrychia radicans and B. tenella had a moderate release (5-10 spm/stichidium/sec) and B. simpliciuscula, a slow release (1-5 spm/stichidium/sec). Also, drying and reimmersion resulted in immediate release in B. moritziana. Caloglossa leprieurii and C. ogasawaraensis also had a slow release, while Catenella nipae exhibited a moderate release. Reduced salinities caused no differences in spermatial discharge rates of Antithamnion antillanum, Ceramium sp., Murrayella periclados, Spyridia filamentosa or Spermothamnion sp. In addition, 75 ppt seawater had no effect when compared with 30 ppt. Discharge in most was completed in 10 minutes.

Keywords : red algae, salinity, spermatial discharge