Abstract
Schoenrock K.M., Amsler C.D., McClintock J.B. and Baker B.J. 2013. Endophyte presence as a potential stressor on growth and survival in Antarctic macroalgal hosts. Phycologia 52: 595–599. DOI: 10:2216/13–188.1Filamentous algal endophytes are common in many species of macroalgae along the Antarctic Peninsula, but their influence on host physiology is unknown. However, worldwide endophyte–macroalgae symbioses are known to be detrimental to vital functions of a host. The growth and survival of four Antarctic rhodophyte species were examined in situ under varying loads of endophyte infection. Growth was measured through relative growth rate and surface-area-corrected growth rate, and survivorship of individuals was documented throughout the experiment. The relationship between hosts and their endophytes was best described as innocuous in Myriogramme manginii, mildly pathogenic in Gymnogongrus turquetii and Trematocarpus antarcticus, and pathogenic in Iridaea cordata. Deterioration of thalli and decreased growth rates may be natural in the late austral summer when this experiment took place; however, the effects of increased infection probably expedited deterioration of the host. Endophytes in this study were pigmented green and brown filamentous algae, most of which are never seen as free-living thalli, and some of which may be obligate endophytes.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.