Melosira costata Greville 1866
Morphological Characteristics :
Cells in column shape. They are connected by numerous tiny spines, in long-chained form. Normally 2 pigment bodies, with nucleus at the centre of cells
Size of Specimen :
6-20 mm (diameter)
Distribution :
The diatom is commonly found in almost all sorts of seawater. Adapted to high ranges of temperature, salinity and nutrient levels. Can be seen at any month of the year in Hong Kong. Dapeng Bay, Day Bay and other parts of the South China Sea. A characteristic phytoplankton of coastal eutrophication. May discolour seawater when it is at high cell concentration.
Major Limiting Factors :
Mainly limited by the supply of inorganic nitrogen. Optimal growth at N:P atomic ratios of 15-30. Algae bloom sometimes triggered by low salinity (< 25%o) and warm temperature (23-28°C).
Toxicity :
Non-toxic, may use up oxygen at night when the cells are at high concentration.
