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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Intraspecific variation in Gracilaria caudata (Gracilariales, Rhodophyta): growth, pigment content, and photosynthesis

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Author(s):
Araujo, F. O. [1] ; Ursi, S. [2] ; Plastino, E. M. [3]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo. Dept Bot
[2] Univ Sao Paulo. Dept Bot
[3] Univ Sao Paulo. Dept Bot
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Journal article
Source: JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYCOLOGY; v. 26, n. 2, p. 849-858, APR 2014.
Web of Science Citations: 12
Abstract

In Brazil, one of the probable reasons for failure in attempts at macroalgal mariculture is the lack of previous studies under controlled conditions. Gracilaria caudata is an important marine red alga which is locally exploited for the production of agar. In this study the aim was to compare in vitro growth rates, pigment content, and photosynthesis in gametophytes and tetrasporophytes of G. caudata from two distinct geographical areas located 2,500 km apart on the Brazilian coast, one in a warmer area closer to the equator (northeastern population), and the other in a colder area closer to the Tropic of Capricorn (southeastern population). Additionally, the artificial ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation effects on strains were evaluated. Under UVB, deleterious effects were observed in all strains. Although the strains from the southeastern population had higher growth rates than those from the northeastern under control condition, the opposite was observed under UVB condition. Under controlled conditions and regardless of the population, growth rates, net photosynthesis, P (max), I (k), and pigment contents were higher in tetrasporophytes than in gametophytes. Consequently, when determining the real potential of a certain phase in cultivation, the tetrasporophyte appears to be the more promising for future experiments along the Brazilian coast. Furthermore, although the growth rate of southeastern strains under control condition was higher, their higher sensitivity to UVB radiation emphasizes the importance of careful selection of the most suitable sites prior to experimental cultivation. The differences in performance between the southeastern and northeastern strains provide support for the hypothesis of their ecotypic differentiation. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 10/50175-3 - Intraspecific diversity of the gracilarioid algae (Gracilariales, Rhodophyta)
Grantee:Estela Maria Plastino
Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Regular Research Grants