Endophytic algae of Chondrus crispus (Rhodophyta). IV. Effects on the host following infections by Acrochaete operculata and A. heteroclada (Chlorophyta)

Abstract

Infections resulted in detrimental effects on host performance, including slower growth and carrageenan yields. Regeneration capacity of the host was diminished, with the extent determined by the density of the infection. Infections also caused softening of host tissue. Infected C. crispus was preferred over non-infected material when offered to Idotea baltica and Gammarus oceanicus. In general, infection by A. heteroclada affected the two life-history generations of the host similarly, whereas A. operculata affect mainly sporophytic fronds. -from Authors