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Impacts of within-alga distribution of nitrogen and defense compounds on the consumption of the giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) by brown turban snails (Chlorostoma brunnea)

Long-term view of pensions improves, but concerns remain : findings from the 2007 survey on pension risk

Effects of the loss of the Apical Meristem on Growth and Tissue Composition in Macrocystis Pyrifera..

Changes to the physiology or chemistry of basal producers can have direct consequences for consumers and the transfer of energy between trophic levels. As a foundation species, giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera sustains high growth rates and primary productivity under dense shading canopies through an efficient system of translocation that provides energy and nutrients to growing tissues. This study investigated what impact removing the growing point or apical meristem from M. pyrifera, as occurs in storms, commercial harvest and historically in grazing by the Stellar's sea cow, has on the physiology of the remaining immature sub-apical blades. Blades from fronds experienced increased growth and erosion rates within the first week after removal of the apical meristem as compared with controls. After two weeks growth and erosion rates were no longer significantly different between manipulated blades and control but substantial differences in concentrations of the sugar mannitol as well as nitrogen and carbon content persisted. The study revealed physiological effects of apical meristem loss that merit further investigation as to their causal mechanisms and suggest the potential for meristem removal to alter interactions with primary consumers