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Autofluorescence Imaging to Evaluate Red Algae Physiology

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Variation in Photosynthetic Performance Relative to Thallus Microhabitat Heterogeneity in Lithothamnion australe

Ju-Hyoung Kim¹, Diana L Steller², Matthew S Edwards³

¹Faculty of Marine Applied Biosciences, Kunsan National University, Gunsan, 54150, South Korea.

Journal of Phycology

|October 6, 2020

Summary

Boat moorings disturb rhodoliths, impacting photosynthesis and structure. Smaller rhodoliths (Lithothamnion australe) show higher productivity, while crushing reduces overall performance and alters respiration rates.

Keywords:

Lithothamnion australe Santa Catalina Island chlorophyll fluorescence microhabitat net oxygen production photosynthesis rhodolith

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Area of Science:

Marine Biology
Ecology
Algal Physiology

Background:

Rhodoliths are crucial, free-living coralline algae forming complex structures in marine habitats.
Anthropogenic disturbances, such as boat moorings, threaten rhodolith ecosystems by reducing structural integrity and size.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the impact of physical disturbance from boat moorings on the photosynthetic performance of the rhodolith Lithothamnion australe.
To understand how rhodolith size and structural complexity influence photosynthetic parameters and respiration.

Main Methods:

Measured photosynthetic parameters (gross productivity, net productivity, respiration) in intact and crushed rhodoliths of varying sizes (1-2 cm diameter).
Assessed chlorophyll fluorescence at the surface and interior of rhodoliths across a size range (0.4-3.5 cm diameter).

Main Results:

Smaller L. australe (1-2 cm) exhibited higher gross and net productivity, while larger individuals showed higher respiration.
Thallus crushing significantly reduced gross and net productivity and respiration in both smaller and larger rhodoliths.
Surface fluorescence was higher in larger rhodoliths and on the surface compared to interior parts; optimal fluorescence occurred in 1.54-2.32 cm individuals.

Conclusions:

The complex structure of L. australe creates spatial heterogeneity in physiological processes (photosynthesis, respiration).
Rhodolith size influences photosynthetic performance and susceptibility to disturbance.
Findings provide insights into rhodolith resilience and responses to environmental stressors and physical damage.