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Comparative studies on the ecophysiological differences of two green tide macroalgae under controlled laboratory
1Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.
Plos One
|August 21, 2012
Summary
Ulva prolifera causes Yellow Sea green tides due to its superior photosynthesis and nutrient absorption. Ulva intestinalis, while more stable, is less involved in these ephemeral blooms.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Phycology
- Ecology
Background:
- Yellow Sea green tides, caused by Ulva prolifera, have recurred annually since 2007.
- Ulva intestinalis co-occurs but is not the primary bloom-causing species.
- Bloom development phases correlate with environmental changes like irradiance, temperature, and salinity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the ecophysiological traits of Ulva prolifera and Ulva intestinalis.
- To understand the differing ecological roles and success factors of these two Ulva species in relation to green tide phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Field investigation to observe bloom phases and environmental factors.
- Laboratory simulation of key environmental factors (irradiance, temperature, salinity).
- Estimation and comparison of physiological responses, including photosynthesis, stress tolerance, and nutrient absorption.
Main Results:
- Ulva prolifera exhibits higher photosynthetic activity and plasticity compared to U. intestinalis.
- U. prolifera is more sensitive to dynamic environments, while U. intestinalis shows greater stability and stress tolerance.
- U. prolifera demonstrates significantly higher nutrient absorption activity.
Conclusions:
- Ecophysiological differences explain the dominance of U. prolifera in ephemeral green tides.
- U. intestinalis appears adapted for persistence rather than rapid bloom development.
- The ecological success of U. prolifera is linked to its enhanced photosynthetic and nutrient uptake capacities.
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