Durvillaea antarctica

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Durvillaea antarctica
'Durvillaea antarctica stipes on Second Bay, Otago, New Zealand
Scientific classification
Domain: Eukaryota Kingdom: Chromalveolata (unranked) Chromista Phylum: Heterokontophyta Class: Phaeophyceae Order: Durvillaeales Family: Durvillaeaceae Genus: Durvillaea Species: antarctica
Binomial name
Durvillaea antarctica

Durvillaea antarctica is the dominant algae on the southern New Zealand and Chile. D. antarctica is found in exposed shores. The holdfast of D. antarctica is large and is very difficult to remove. D. antarctica has to resit forces equivalent to 1100 km/h on land ^[1]. The blades are golden brown with a leathery texture. D. antarctica does not have air bladders. D. antarctica achieves flotation by a honeycomb structure within the alga's blades. This honeycomb structure helps the kelp from sustaining mechanical damage when being exposes to oscillatory wave motion. This novel structure is thought to be responsible for the wide distribution of this genus. The kelp is able to float when the holdfast fails. It is possible that the algae can colonise other coastlines in this manner ^[1]. The holdfast failing is usually the result of worms and molluscs which feed on the tissue because of the sheltered habitat it creates ^[2]. Recruitment rates of this species is very low, therefore the ecological impact of harvesting this species is too great ^[2].

Contents 1 Morphology 2 Life Cycle 3 Recipes 4 References

[edit] Morphology

Durvillaea antarctica is characterised by the honeycomb structure of the blade.

[edit] Life Cycle

Durvillaea antarctica reproduces sexually by producing egg and sperm that are released into the water. Eggs and sperm are produced on specific sites of the frond. A large individual can produce 100 million eggs in twelve hours (Bradstock, 1989). The season when reproduction occurs varies with location.

[edit] Recipes

In Chilean Cuisine, the Durvillaea antarctica, named cochayuyo, is used for different recipes, like salads and stews.

[edit] References

1. ^ ^{a b} Hurd, C (2003). The Living Reef. Nelson, New Zealand: Craig Potton Publishing. 
2. ^ ^{a b} Bradstock, M (1989). Between the Tides. New Zealand: David Bateman Limited.