The Symbiotic Green Algae, Oophila (Chlamydomonadales, Chlorophyceae): A Heterotrophic Growth Study and Taxonomic History
Year: 2016
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The green alga Oophila ambystomatus (Chlamydomonadales, Chlorophyceae) is well known as the symbiotic partner of Ambystoma maculatum, the yellow-spotted salamander. Recent molecular work has revealed phylogenetic diversity within isolates of Oophila from New England. Here I investigate physiological properties and genetic diversity of the algal symbionts representing different evolutionary lineages. In other well-studied symbiotic systems involving algae, e.g., Chlorella and Hydra, algae and lichen, or Symbiodinium and Scleractinian corals, the algal symbiont is capable of multiple trophic modes, thus influencing its capacity as a partner. In this study I investigated whether genetically differentiated strains of Oophila are capable of absorbing organic carbon compounds (heterotrophic growth) and hypothesize how this might play into its symbiotic relationship. A growth study examined each strain’s ability to grow in light (16:8 L:D; 41 μmol/m2) and in dark (0:24 L:D; 0 μmol/m2) in three different media types (BBM, BBM+glu, BBM+gal). I determined there is metabolic variability among the strains that indicates each may provide differential benefits to their partner. I also reviewed the taxonomic history of Oophila to resolve confusion over its validity. After a brief recount of its history, I determined that the name is valid, and suggest a recent collection from the type locality of Middlesex Fells Reservation be designated as an epitype given that the aged type material lacks diagnostic features and its DNA is degraded. An epitype will provide future researchers an unambiguous anchoring specimen and sequence for future taxonomic, molecular and physiological studies.
Author: Nikolaus Schultz
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: University of Connecticut
OpenAlex ID: W2593574469