Jackson Estuarine Laboratory
Ecological studies of Floridian Eucheuma (Rhodophyta, Gigartinales). III. Seasonal variation of carrageenan, total carbohydrate, protein and lipid
Abstract
Eucheuma isiforme, E. nudum, and a species designated as the Bahia Honda form, because of its unclear taxonomic status, were analyzed seasonally to determine their dry weight, protein, carbohydrate, 3,6 anhydro-D-galactose, and lipid contents. A fourth species, E. gelidium, was analyzed occasionally and compared with the other three. The highest protein levels and the lowest carbohydrate values were recorded during the period of rapid growth (March-June). Lipid concentrations were low (0-2 per cent) throughout the year. The percentage of 3,6 anhydro-D-galactose was lowest when the carbohydrate levels were highest. The ratio of protein to carbohydrate can be used as an indicator of the physiological state of Eucheuma. Protein-to-carbohydrate ratios of 1/10 to 1/15 occurred in rapidly growing plants, while plants exhibiting little growth had ratios of 1/25 to 1/30. Seasonal variations of 3,6 anhydro-D-galactose are discussed in relation to recent information on nutrients and light.
Publication Date
6-1-1974
Journal Title
Bulletin of Marine Science
Publisher
Ingenta Connect
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Dawes, C.J., J.M. Lawrence, D.P. Cheney, and A.C. Mathieson. 1974. Ecological studies of Floridian Eucheuma (Rhodophyta, Gigartinales). III. Seasonal variation of carrageenan, total carbohydrate, protein and lipid. Bulletin of Marine Science 24:286-299. (Contribution No. 647 in the Agricultural Experiment Station Series)