Differences in pigmentation between life cycle stages in Scrippsiella lachrymosa (dinophyceae)

摘要: Various life cycle stages of cyst-producing dinoflagellates often appear differently colored under the microscope; gametes paler while zygotes are darker in comparison to vegetative cells. To compare physiological and photochemical competency, pigment composition discrete was determined for common resting dinoflagellate Scrippsiella lachrymosa. Vegetative cells had highest cellular content (25.2 ± 0.5 pg · cell(-1) ), whereas gamete 22% lower. The 82% lower than cells, even though they appeared microscope. Zygotes S. lachrymosa contained significantly higher concentrations β-carotene (0.65 0.15 ) all other stages. Photoprotective pigments de-epoxidation ratio xanthophylls-cycle were elevated cysts compared This suggests a role accessory combating intracellular oxidative stress during sexual reproduction or encystment. Resting some chloroplasts not visible, suggesting that brightly accumulation body photosynthetic pigments. differences pigmentation between have implications interpretation data from field samples when sampled blooms.