OXYGEN UTILIZATION IN THE SYMBIOSIS OF EMBRYOS OF THE SALAMANDER, AMBYSTOMA MACULATUM AND THE ALGA, OOPHILA AMBLYSTOMATIS
VICTOR H. HUTCHISON AND CARL S. HAMMEN
Background
Unicellular algae occur as symbionts for many aquatic invertebrates.
The symbiotic relationship between salamander eggs and algae was established by Gilbert (1942, 1944). He also demonstrated that
Masses of salamander eggs inhabited by unicellular algae have demonstrated to have lower mortality, an earlier hatching time and a faster growth rate.
Eggs of A. Maculatum salamanders are often laid in small temporary, woodland ponds that lack oxygen. So any method to increase the water’s oxygen concentration may aid it growth.
Complex means an entire egg is enveloped together with it embryo, algae, protozoa and bacteria.
Gilbert suspect the symbiotic relationship may consist of the utilization by the embryo if the O2 produced in the photosynthesis by the algae and the utilization by the algae of CO2 produced by the embryo.
Independent Variable: and amount of light allowed to the eggs, algae
Dependent Variable: Oxygen Consumption
Question: does algae and light effect the embryos consumption of oxygen?
Materials and Methods:
The embryos were taken directly form a pond in North Carolina, and split in half into one part that are put in the pond water in light, the other put in half in spring water.
Measure in different stages: Algae-free complex, algae inhabited complex, isolated embryos, and