Growth Rate Consequences of Coloniality in a Harmful Phytoplankter

摘要: Background Allometric studies have shown that individual growth rate is inversely related to body size across a broad spectrum of organisms vary greatly in size. Fewer documented such patterns within species. No data exist directly documenting the influence colony on for microscopic, colonial organisms. Methodology/Principal Findings To determine if similar negative relationships between and hold organisms, we developed technique measuring colonies bloom-forming, toxic cyanobacterium, Microcystis aeruginosa using microscopy digital image analysis. For five out six genotypes M. isolated from lakes Michigan Alabama, found significant rate. We large intraspecific variation both slope these at standard In addition, estimates were generally consistent with population rates measured batch culture. Conclusions/Significance Given varies widely populations, our results imply natural populations phytoplankton as mosaic individuals varying ecological attributes (since strongly affects rate, grazing mortality, migration speed). Quantifying will permit development more accurate, predictive models interactions (e.g., competition, herbivory) their role proliferation harmful algal blooms, addition increasing understanding about why strength environments.