Release of macromolecular organic complexes by heterotrophic marine flagellates

Abstract

Examined whether or not the heterotrophic marine flagellate Paraphysomonas imperforata releases macromolecular dissolved organic matter (DOM). Flagellates apparently release their own digestive enzymes and incompletely digested membranes and probably other cellular components from bacterial prey and these compounds form liposome-like organic complexes. These complexes may be important for understanding the chemical nature and turnover of DOM in the oceans. -from Authors