Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Assessing methods for collecting and transferring viable algae from Signy Island, maritime Antarctic, to the United Kingdom

  • Short Note
  • Published:
Polar Biology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract.

Acquisition and transfer of algae from distant polar locations to research facilities in the northern hemisphere may take several months, at which point the algae may be non-viable and in a deteriorated state. This study explores the effectiveness of 3% (w/v) Benomyl fungicide (Benlate) pre-treatments, on fungal "spoilage", viability and biochemical status of algae collected from terrestrial and freshwater habitats at Signy Island, maritime Antarctic. The results allow recommendations concerning sampling procedures and species selection for the ex-situ study of Antarctic algae to be made. The three algal taxa examined showed that although the fungicide was not necessary for successful transfer of viable specimens, it had a positive effect on viability. Prasiola crispa is suggested as a target organism for future ex-situ physiological studies.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Plant Conservation Group, School of Science and Engineering, University of Abertay Dundee, Bell Street, Dundee DD1 1HG, UK, , , , ,

    Claire Johnstone & Erica E. Benson

  2. British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK, , , , ,

    William Block

  3. Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Windermere, Far Sawrey, Ambleside, Cumbria LA22 0LP, UK, , , , ,

    John G. Day

  4. SIMBIOS, University of Abertay Dundee, Bell Street, Dundee DD1 1HG, UK, , , , ,

    Harry Staines & Janine B. Illian

Authors
  1. Claire Johnstone
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. William Block
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Erica E. Benson
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  4. John G. Day
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  5. Harry Staines
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  6. Janine B. Illian
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Additional information

Electronic Publication

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Johnstone, C., Block, W., Benson, E.E. et al. Assessing methods for collecting and transferring viable algae from Signy Island, maritime Antarctic, to the United Kingdom. Polar Biol 25, 553–556 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-002-0377-8

Download citation

  • Accepted:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-002-0377-8

Keywords

Search

Navigation