Environmental factors affecting akinete germination and resting cell awakening of two cyanobacteria

Abstract

Globally, cyanobacteria frequently cause blooms that outcompete other species in the waterbody, affecting the diversity, decreasing water exchange rates, and promoting eutrophication that leads to excessive algal growth. Here, Dolichospermum circinalis (akinetes) and Microcystic aeruginosa (resting cells), were isolated from the sediment in the Uiam Dam in the North Han River and near Ugok Bridge in the Nakdong River, respectively. The morphology, germination process and rates, and growth was evaluated in different environmental conditions. D. cercinalis germination began on day two of culturing, with maximum cell growth observed on day ten. In contrast, M. aeruginosa exhibited daily increase in cell density and colony size, with notable density increase on day six. Next, different environmental conditions were assessed. Akinetes exhibited high germination rates at low light intensity (5—30 µmol/m2/s), whereas resting cells exhibited high growth rates at high light intensity (50—100 µmol/m2/s). Furthermore, both cell types exhibited optimum germination and growth in media containing N and P at 20—30° at a pH of 7—9. Our study reveals the optimum conditions for the germination and growth of cyanobacterial akinetes and resting cells isolated from river sediment, respectively, and will assist in predicting cyanobacterial blooms for appropriate management.