Influence of salinity and temperature on the growth of Bryothamnion triquetrum (Rhodophyta: Rhodomelaceae)

Salinity and temperature effects on the growth rate of Bryothamnion triquetrum, a red algae widespread in Caribbean basin, was evaluated in a range limited by naturally extreme values of these factors in the species biotope. The tropical behavior fo this species was corroborated experimentally. In the range of salinities between 27 and 43 parts per thousand the termal optimum of growth was 29 degrees C and only salinities greater than 39(parts per thousand) depressed growth. Combination of different levels of both factors showed tha with a tempetature of 29 or 32 degrees C and salinities of 27 to 35 parts per thousand the weight was enhanced.