Growth characteristics of bloom forming Mallomonas elongata (Synurophyceae) based on silicate and light intensity

A dominant planktonic bloom-forming species, Mallomonas elongata was isolated from a small shallow eutrophic pond. The growth characteristics of this species on variable silicate concentrations and light intensities were investigated in laboratory unialgal cultures. In culture condition of $15^{\circ}C$, the maximum population growth and the highest growth rate of M. elongata occurred at a light intensity of $80\;{\mu}mol\;m^{-2}s^{-1}$, and in culture condition of $18^{\circ}C$, it exhibited the maximum population growth and the highest growth rates at a light intensity of $50\;{\mu}mol\;m^{-2}s^{-1}$. Silicate concentration had no effect on the population growth and growth rate of M. elongata.