EPIPHYTISM AND FOULING IN GRACILARIA CULTIVATION - AN OVERVIEW

Epiphytism is a major, world-wide problem in Gracilaria cultivation, severely reducing the productivity and cost efficiency of a diverse range of open-water and on-shore farms; the problem is especially acute in tank cultivation systems. The present paper provides an overview of the literature on epiphytism and fouling in the Gracilaria mariculture industry. Topics considered include the identity of the main epiphytes and fouling organisms, aspects of their ecology and biology which contribute towards their success as contaminants, the detrimental effects which epiphytes exert on the host plants, and the range of physical, chemical and biological control methods currently available. Recent changes in approach, with less descriptive information and more emphasis on experimental studies of Gracilaria-epiphyte interactions, are welcomed, as these offer hope for the development of improved control measures.