Dinoflagellate cyst production in
one-liter containers
B.C. Smith, A.
Persson-2004
Journal
of Applied Phycology, 16(5):
401-405
Abstract:
Methods
for the production of dinoflagellate cysts in two types of 1 L containers
have been developed. Using these methods, dinoflagellate cysts can be
produced in amounts large enough for shellfish grazing experiments or
whenever large amounts of cysts are needed. The species used were Scrippsiella
lachrymosa (B-10) and toxic Alexandrium fundyense (CB501 and
GTM25). Cultures of S. lachrymosa yielded 628 ±
74 cysts mL-1 and A. fundyense cultures yielded
350 ± 98 cysts mL-1. Findings
suggest that aspects of the boundary layer between the media and the wall of
the container are important for gamete mating; especially, the slope of the
container wall appears to be relevant, which offers some explanation of
previous observations that the shape of the container is important in the
formation of dinoflagellate resting cysts. These observations may support
the theory that physical interfaces in nature facilitate dinoflagellate
encystment.
(National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
National Marine Fisheries Service, Northeast Fisheries Science Center,
Milford Laboratory, Milford, Connecticut, 06460, USA, e-mail: barry.smith@noaa.gov)