The Role of Microorganisms in Marine Fouling.
Abstract
A complex community of bacteria, diatoms, protozoa and microalgae is considered collectively as the primary film which develop on non-toxic surfaces immersed in seawater. There appears to be a strong correlation between primary film formation and attachment of animals. Studies conducted in the laboratory on the attachment of oyster larvae (Crassostrea virginica) to surfaces with a film indicate that differences in the microbiological film are detectable by the larvae. Oyster larvae were observed to display three characteristic chemotactic patterns toward a variety of organic compounds and microorganisms. Studies conducted in the field suggest that the number of animals which attach to a surface is proportional to the number of bacteria composing the primary film. Control of fouling is discussed in terms of biological principles. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- AD0747637
Entities
People
- Lily Young
- Ralph Mitchell
Organizations
- Harvard University