Harmful Algal Species in the Tebrau Strait: An SEM Observation of the Dinofl agellate Assemblage
Harmful algal bloom (HAB) is a natural phenomenon due to the increase of algal cell density in the water column that subsequently causes deleterious effects to natural environments as well as mankind. HABs in the country mainly occurred when a particular group of dinofl agellate cells proliferate...
| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
National University of Singapore
2013
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/16184/ http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/16184/1/Harmful%20Algal%20Species%20in%20the%20Tebrau%20Strait%20%28abstract%29.pdf |
| Summary: | Harmful algal bloom (HAB) is a natural phenomenon due to the increase of algal cell density in the water column
that subsequently causes deleterious effects to natural environments as well as mankind. HABs in the country
mainly occurred when a particular group of dinofl agellate cells proliferate in the eutrophied semi-enclosed
coastal water body. In this study, dinofl agellate species composition in the Tebrau Strait was determined by
scanning electron microscope (SEM). Plankton samples were collected by a 20-micron plankton net haul at
several locations of the strait. Samples were undergone fi xation, serial dehydration and followed by critical
point drying. Samples were then observed under a JEOL analytical SEM. Total of 11 dinofl agellate species
were identifi ed, with 7 species known to be associated with HABs events. The occurrence of a fi sh-killing
unarmoured dinofl agellate, Karlodinium venefi cum was reported for the fi rst time from Malaysian waters. The
presence of this and other potentially harmful dinofl agellate species in the strait should be taken seriously by the respective authorities in future expansion of aquaculture industry in the strait. |
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