Rothäusler, E., Macaya, E., Molis, M., Wahl, Martin and Thiel, M. (2005) Laboratory experiments examining inducible defense show variable responses of temperate brown and red macroalgae. Revista Chilena De Historia Natural, 78 (4). pp. 603-614. DOI 10.4067/S0716-078X2005000400001.

Preview

Text Wahl.pdf - Published Version Download (166kB)

Abstract

Macroalgae can defend themselves against generalist and specialist herbivores via morphological and/or
chemical traits. Herein we examined the defensive responses (via relative palatability) of two brown
(Lessonia nigrescens, Glossophora kunthii) and two red algae (Grateloupia doryphora, Chondracanthus
chamissoi) from the northern-central coast of Chile against selected generalist meso-herbivores. Two
laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate whether (i) algae can respond generally to grazing
pressure of meso-herbivores (amphipods, isopods and juvenile sea urchins) and whether (ii) these algal
responses were inducible. In order to examine palatability and thus effectiveness of responses, feeding assays
were run after each experiment using fresh algal pieces and artificial agar-based food. Lessonia nigrescens
responded to amphipods but not to sea urchins, and G. kunthii showed inducible response against one species
of amphipods. Grateloupia doryphora did not respond against any of the tested grazers, whereas C. chamissoi
responded against one species of amphipods and the tested isopod. Our results indicate variable responses of
macroalgae against selected generalist meso-herbivores and evidence of an inducible defense in the brown
alga G. kunthii.

Actions (login required)

View Item