Seminar: Professor Berman-Frank (University of Haifa, Israel)

Speaker: Professor Berman-Frank (University of Haifa, Israel)

Title: Getting Through Together: Sociality in Cyanobacteria (The Case of Trichodesmium)

Host: Dr. Yonathan Zohar

Abstract: Trichodesmium spp. are dinitrogen-fixing (diazotrophic) cyanobacteria that exist as single filaments (trichomes) and as macroscopic colonies formed by aggregating trichomes. We demonstrate that limited availability of dissolved phosphorus (P) or iron (Fe) stimulated trichome mobility and induced colony formation in cultures and natural populations. The colonies formed appear to provide enhanced metabolic rates compared to single trichomes under depleted nutrients and were also characterized by stronger attachment forces between the trichomes. Preliminary evidence from the nutrient-limited surface oceans shows that P and Fe availability prompt colony formation and that morphology also has a role in the fate of Trichodesmium blooms.

Contact imetdirectorsoffice@umces.edu for meeting details.