New insights on cytological and metabolic features of Ostreopsis cf. ovata Fukuyo (Dinophyceae): a multidisciplinary approach.

ABSTRACT: The harmful dinoflagellate Ostreopsis cf. ovata has been causing toxic events along the Mediterranean coasts and other temperate and tropical areas, with increasing frequency during the last decade. Despite many studies, important biological features of this species are still poorly known. An integrated study, using different microscopy and molecular techniques, Raman microspectroscopy and high resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HR LC-MS), was undertaken to elucidate cytological aspects, and identify main metabolites including toxins. The species was genetically identified as O. cf. ovata, Atlantic-Mediterranean clade. The ultrastructural results show unique features of the mucilage network abundantly produced by this species to colonize benthic substrates, with a new role

SUBMITTER: Honsell G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3584116 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature