The colonization of palynomorphs by chytrids and thraustochytrids during pre-depositional taphonomic processes in tropical mangrove ecosystems

Author(s)
Wongkot Phuphumirat, David K. Ferguson, Frank H. Gleason
Abstract

Degrees of colonization of palynomorphs from six mangrove plants by chytrids and thraustochytrids in four mangrove plant communities at each stage of the pre-depositional taphonomic process were investigated using a pollen-baiting method. Chytrids and thraustochytrids were the dominant group colonizing palynomorphs in mangroves, gaining access to the cytoplasm through the wall or aperture. There were no significant differences in the degree of colonization between the different plant communities. Pollen with a larger size and/or extensive apertural region appeared to be the most colonized, while the absence of apertures and the presence of a thick wall seemed to reduce the chance of colonization by these microorganisms. Taphonomic experiments showed that the longer palynomorphs take to settle into the mangrove sediments, the lower the possibility of survival from the destructive colonization by chytrids and thraustochytrids and consequently the less carbon that will be sequestered.

Organisation(s)
Department of Palaeontology
External organisation(s)
Prince of Songkla University, The University of Sydney
Journal
Fungal Ecology
Volume
23
Pages
11-19
No. of pages
9
ISSN
1754-5048
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.funeco.2016.05.006
Publication date
10-2016
Peer reviewed
Yes
Austrian Fields of Science 2012
105117 Palaeobotany
Keywords
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Ecological Modelling, Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, Plant Science, Ecology
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 14 - Life Below Water
Portal url
https://ucrisportal.univie.ac.at/en/publications/14386f08-130f-414e-a67e-4dc7dc54c4f7