Investigation of the algicidal exudate produced by Shewanella sp. IRI-160 and its effect on dinoflagellates

The bacterium, Shewanella sp. IRI-160, was previously shown to have negative effects on the growth of dinoflagellates, while having no negative effects on other classes of phytoplankton tested ( Hare et al., 2005). In this study, we investigated the mode of algicidal activity for Shewanella sp. IRI-160 and found that the bacterium secretes a bioactive compound. The optimum temperature for production of the algicidal compound by this bacterium was at 30 °C. Bacteria-free filtrate of medium containing the algicide (designated IRI-160AA) was stable at temperatures ranging from −80 °C to 121 °C, and could be stored at room temperature for at least three weeks with no loss in activity. Algicidal activity was eluted in the aqueous portion after C18 extraction, suggesting that the active compound is likely polar and water-soluble. The activity of IRI-160AA was examined on a broad range of dinoflagellates (Karlodinium veneficum, Karenia brevis, Gyrodinium instriatum, Cochlodinium polykrikoides, Heterocapsa triquetra, Prorocentrum minimum, Alexandrium tamarense and Oxyrrhis marina) and three species from other classes of algae as controls (Dunaliella tertiolecta, Rhodomonas sp. and Thalassiosira pseudonana). Algicidal activity was observed for each dinoflagellate and little to no negative effect was observed on chlorophyte and cryptophyte cultures, while a slight (non-significant) stimulatory effect was observed on the diatom culture exposed to the algicide. Finally, the effect of the algicide at different growth stages was investigated for K. veneficum and G. instriatum. IRI-160AA exhibited a significantly greater effect during logarithmic growth compared to stationary phase, suggesting a potential application of the algicide for prevention and control of harmful dinoflagellate blooms in the future.

► Shewanella sp. IRI-160 secretes a compound that is active against dinoflagellates.
► The algicide, IRI-160AA, is a small, thermally stable, hydrophilic molecule.
► IRI-160AA retained activity at room temperature and from −80 °C to 121 °C.
► Algicidal activity was greater for dinoflagellates compared to non-dinoflagellates tested.
► Algicidal activity was greatest during logarithmic growth phases for dinoflagellates.