NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE RED TIDE DINOFLAGELLATE PRORECENTRUM TRIESTINUM SCHILLER

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE RED TIDE
DINOFLAGELLATE PRORECENTRUM TRIESTINUM SCHILLER

By
W. LABIB*
* National Institute of Oceanography & F~sheries, Alexandria (Egypt).
Key Words: Nutrition, Red Tide
ABSTRACT
In order to examine the nutritional requirements of the Red Tide
dinoflagellate Prorocentrum triestinium Schiller, an axenic culture,
was established.
The combination ofnitrate and phosphate enhanced the growth yield
remarkably, comparing with their individual addition as well as vitamin
B12 and thiamine. The soil extract significantly stimulated the growth,
more than all treatments tested. Trace metals were also crucial
elements. Their essential role triggering outbreaks of P. triestinum
must deserve attention.
The experiment supports the results of the recent field ecological
studies carried out in the eutrophicated coastal waters ofAlexandria
(Egypt).
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