Toxic and nontoxic microcystis colonies in natural populations can be differentiated on the basis of rRNA gene internal transcribed spacer diversity.

ABSTRACT: Assessing and predicting bloom dynamics and toxin production by Microcystis requires analysis of toxic and nontoxic Microcystis genotypes in natural communities. We show that genetic differentiation of Microcystis colonies based on rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences provides an adequate basis for recognition of microcystin producers. Consequently, ecological studies of toxic and nontoxic cyanobacteria are now possible through studies of rRNA ITS genotypic diversity in isolated cultures or colonies and in natural communities. A total of 107 Microcystis colonies were isolated from 15 lakes in Europe and Morocco, the presence of microcystins in each colony was examined by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and they were g

SUBMITTER: Janse I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC444771 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature