The Reversible Effect of Flow on the Morphology of Ceratocorys Horrida (Peridiniales, Dinophyta)
Abstract
Most cells experience an active and variable fluid environment, in which hydrodynamic forces can affect aspects of cell physiology including gene regulation, growth, nutrient uptake, and viability. The present study describes a rapid yet reversible change in cell morphology of the marine dinoflagellate Ceratocorys horrida Stein, due to fluid motion. Cells cultured under still conditions possess six large spines, each almost one cell diameter in length. When gently agitated on an orbital shaker under conditions simulating fluid motion at the sea surface due to light wind or surface chop, as determined from digital particle imaging velocimetry, population growth was inhibited and a short-spined cell type appeared that possessed a 49% mean decrease in spine length and a 53% mean decrease in cell volume. The reduction in cell size appeared to result primarily from a 39% mean decrease in vacuole size. Short-spined cells were first observed after 1 h of agitation at 20 deg C; after 8 to 12 d of continuous agitation, long-spined cells were no longer present.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- AD1015493
Entities
People
- Fabrice Veron
- Marnie J. Zirbel
- Michael I. Latz
Organizations
- University of California, San Diego