Frond elongation rates of shallow waterMacrocystis pyrifera (L.) Ag. In northern Baja California, Mexico

Abstract

Macrocystis pyrifera (L.) Ag.frond elongation rates were measured during autumn-winter, spring and summer in a shallow water (7.5 m depth) kelp bed in Bahia Papalote, northern Baja California. Frond elongation was maximum during spring and minimum during winter. Frond growth was significantly correlated with solar radiation, and was highest in the smallest size fronds (0–2 m). Average frond elongation rate varied between 0.3–11% d−1 during the study period. The relationship between average frond length and elongation rate followed an exponential curve with a negative slope during autumn-winter and summer, but was best described by a straight line during spring. Standard growth rates were obtained by a graphic method. Standard growth rates had intermediate values between those reported for southern California and southern Baja California.M. pyrifera growth cycle shows a different trend from what has been previously reported.