Isolation and Pure Culture Study of Marine Phycomycetes

Abstract

A simple method for the isolation of pure cultures of marine Phycomycetes is described. Methods for laboratory study of the growth and development of such fungi are also described, particularly with respect to zoospore release and examination of early developmental stages. Three of the fungi isolated, Lagenidium callinectes, Haliphthoros milfordensis, and Atkinsiella dubia, are described on the basis of pure-culture examinations. Atkinsiella dubia is also described and grown as a saprophyte, whereas it was previously known only as a parasite of pea crab eggs at Plymouth, England. With pure cultures, it was possible to extend the knowledge of all 3 fungi and to see developmental spore-release stages of A. dubia which had not been observed previously. The habitat of these fungi in the marine environment is discussed.