Abstract
ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determining the manner in which salinity influenced the growth of the macroalgae Gracilaria birdiae, with the objective of identifying its tolerance limits to this abiotic variable. The specimens were submitted to nutrient-enriched water of varying salinities (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 ppt) for a 30-day period. Initially, under extreme salinity conditions (0 and 60 ppt) the growth of the G. birdiae suffered a negative impact. The macroalgae biomass exposed to 0 and 10 ppt salinities showed a reduction from day six until the experiment was completed. The macroalgae biomass exposed to salinities 20, 30, 40, and 50 ppt showed an increase, with no significant differences between the four treatments. This suggested that this salinity range was comfortable for this species to develop. We concluded that salinity is a crucial parameter which controls the growth of the G. birdiae. This seaweed was negatively influenced when exposed to values equal to or below 10 ppt and equal to 60 ppt, demonstrating good tolerance to salinities of 20, 30, 40 and 50 ppt.
Highlights
Macroalgae cultivation shows high productivity, with genus Gracilaria ranking among the most cultivated of the marine vegetables
This study aimed to determining the manner in which salinity influenced the growth of the macroalgae Gracilaria birdiae, with the objective of identifying its tolerance limits to this abiotic variable
The G. birdiae had initial average biomass of 34.3 gMS.m-2, which showed no significant difference between treatments (P = 0.8437) (Figure 1)
Summary
Macroalgae cultivation shows high productivity, with genus Gracilaria (red algae) ranking among the most cultivated of the marine vegetables. Macroalgae are extensively employed in agriculture, enhancing the productivity of the crop and raising their tolerance levels to overcome biotic and abiotic stresses (BATTACHARYYA, 2015). They are used in aquaculture, as they have bioremediation efficiency, in terms of nutrient removal from water (MARINHO -SORIANO, 2008). Salinity ranks high among these variables and is considered one of the most significant, which can influence the metabolism and reproductive capacity of aquatic organisms (WHARTON, 2002; PEREIRA et al, 2017; FATH, 2018).
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