Effects of small-scale turbulence on Phaeocystis globosa (Prymnesiophyceae) growth and life cycle
Schapira, M.; Seuront, L.; Gentilhomme, V. (2006). Effects of small-scale turbulence on Phaeocystis globosa (Prymnesiophyceae) growth and life cycle. J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol. 335(1): 27-38
In: Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. Elsevier: New York. ISSN 0022-0981; e-ISSN 1879-1697, more
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| Keywords |
Colonization
Microcosms
Population functions > Growth
Turbulence
Uptake
Phaeocystis globosa Scherffel, 1899 [WoRMS]
ANE, English Channel [Marine Regions]
Marine/Coastal |
| Authors | | Top |
- Schapira, M.
- Seuront, L.
- Gentilhomme, V.
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| Abstract |
The response of Phaeocystis globosa to small-scale turbulence was studied in 5 l microcosms. Turbulence was generated by oscillating grids. The effect of small-scale turbulence was examined under 3 turbulence levels representative of the P. globosa natural environment, and in non-turbulent control cultures. Single cell numbers, nitrogen concentrations and colony formation (number and diameter) were followed over 13 days in each experimental culture. Small-scale turbulence decreased single cell growth and also influenced colony formation. More colonies were formed when turbulence increased to a given threshold, but above this turbulence level, fewer and smaller colonies were observed in P. globosa cultures. The ecological significance of these results, particularly, the potential influence of small-scale turbulence on competition mechanisms between P. globosa and diatoms are finally discussed and suggested as a key factor to understand phytoplankton successions in the Eastern English Channel. |
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