The Role of Modern Culture Methods in the Study of Algal Life Cycles

Abstract

Information on the experimental control of the phenomena of zoospore and gamete formation are summarized along with current theories of their underlying physiology. No theory has yet been proposed which satisfactorily incorporates all the data available on the effects of light, temperature, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and external nutrients. Algal culture methods should profit from the adoption of synchronizing techniques now available for algae, and physiological studies of altered cell development should examine more thoroughly the roles of trace elements, vitamins and hormones, red in contrast to far-red light, and the biochemical changes in cell composition during growth.