Algal communities in phytotelmata : a comparison of native Collospermum and exotic bromeliads (Monocotyledonae) in New Zealand
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Other Title
Authors
Killick, Sarah
Blanchon, Dan
Large, Mark
Blanchon, Dan
Large, Mark
Author ORCID Profiles (clickable)
Degree
Grantor
Date
2014-10-14
Supervisors
Type
Journal Article
Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)
Keyword
Collospermum hastatum (Colenso)
bromeliads (Monocotyledonae)
phytotelmata
algae of phytotelmata
bromeliads (Monocotyledonae)
phytotelmata
algae of phytotelmata
ANZSRC Field of Research Code (2020)
Citation
Killick, S. A., Blanchon, D. J., and Large, M. F. (2014). Algal communities in phytotelmata: A comparison of native Collospermum and exotic bromeliads (Monocotyledonae) in New Zealand. Telopea, 17, pp.303-310.
Abstract
Plants that grow epiphytically are often adapted to hold water in a central cup or in leaf axils to maintain hydration given that they cannot access soil water. These bodies of water, called phytotelmata, are miniature temporary aquatic ecosystems. This water frequently contains a variety of microorganisms. The New Zealand native Collospermum hastatum (Colenso) Skottsb. (Asteliaceae) is known to hold water within the leaf axils; however, an assessment of algal communities within this habitat has never been undertaken. To remedy this lack of knowledge, water samples were obtained from the leaf axils of C. hastatum, with exotic bromeliads for comparison. Freycinetia banksii A.Cunn. and Astelia solandri A.Cunn. were also investigated, but did not contain sufficient water for further investigation. Urban bromeliads investigated had a wide range of organisms within the phytotelmata, including four genera of diatoms. No desmids were identified. Collospermum and Forest-sourced bromeliad water held a comparatively less diverse range of biota, with a complete lack of algal presence. We propose three possible explanations for this; inadequate light levels for algal growth; unsuitable phytotelmic pH; and low background levels of algae for dispersal within native forest environments.
Publisher
National Herbarium of New South Wales, Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust.
Permanent link
Link to ePress publication
DOI
dx.doi.org/10.7751/telopea20147847
Copyright holder
Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust
Copyright notice
© 2014 Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust