Significance of microalgal–bacterial interactions for aquaculture
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Date
2013-01
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Abstract
Knowledge on the importance of associations between bacteria and microalgae in
aquatic ecosystems is rather limited at the moment, mostly due to a lack of studies
at the molecular and biochemical level of microorganisms. This paper discusses
the current knowledge on microalgae–bacteria interactions and their potential
impacts on the productivity, efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture. Current
findings suggest that the interactions are complex and specific. The release of
stimulatory products by bacteria that enhance the growth of microalgae, and vice
versa, indicates the existence of mutualistic relations. Other factors, such as signalling
between bacteria and microalgae, may also play an important role.
Although these interactions may be of significant importance, to date, only a few
findings have been reported on the use of consortia consisting of microalgae and
bacteria for practical purposes. Interestingly, these results pointed out that a combination
of microalgae and bacteria is often better than using either of them
alone. Further research is needed to obtain a thorough understanding of the
mechanisms behind the interactions between these microorganisms, including the
identification of active compounds. This knowledge will enable the selection of
appropriate consortia for different applications in aquaculture, including disease
control and high and sustainable production of feed.
Description
Keywords
aquaculture, bacteria, consortium, greenwater, microalgae, mutualism, quorum sensing interference