Kelp nursery optimisation: density-dependent effects in early life-cycle stages of Ecklonia radiata (Laminariales)

Kelp aquaculture is an emerging industry outside of Asia. To be successful, this industry requires a reliable production of seedstock, the optimisation of which greatly benefits from a detailed physiological understanding of the microscopic life-cycle stages of the cultured species. This study investigated the impact of six zoospore densities (10–278 mm⁻²) on the subsequent development of Ecklonia radiata gametophytes and sporophytes. The results showed that germination rates and sex ratio were unaffected by initial zoospore density, but there were significant effects on gametophyte size and sporophyte production. After two weeks, female gametophytes were largest at an initial zoospore density of 40 mm⁻² while male gametophytes grew largest at densities below 40 mm⁻², but after four weeks gametophyte size showed a negative relationship with initial zoospore density. Significantly more sporophytes developed at initial zoospore densities below 40 individuals mm⁻² and no sporophytes were observed at the highest density (271 zoospores mm⁻²). These results clearly show the importance of initial zoospore density in optimising the nursery stage of kelp aquaculture.