Formation and Regeneration of Abnormal Cells of the Marine DiatomDitylum Brightwellii(West) Grunow

Abstract

Heavy metals, as well as affecting the growth rate and photosynthesis of algae, have a considerable effect on the size and morphology of algal cells (see, for example, Erickson, 1972; Nuzzi, 1972; Davies, 1974; Kayser, 1976). Changes in the colour of algae in the presence of heavy metals have also been observed (Greenfield, 1942). At metal concentrations resulting in total growth inhibition of algae the cells, although abnormal, are not necessarily dead (see, for example, Nielsen & Kamp-Nielsen, 1970; Erickson, 1972; Nuzzi, 1972; Blankenship & Wilbur, 1975).In heavy-metal toxicity studies withDitylum brightwellii(West) Grunow (Canterford & Canterford, 1979) it was observed that low concentrations of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and toxic concentrations of several heavy metals resulted in the formation of abnormal cells. In the present paper factors affecting the formation of abnormal cells are discussed. Experiments were carried out to establish whether or not these abnormal cells could be regenerated.