Species-speciWc defense strategies of vegetative versus reproductive blades of the PaciWc kelps Lessonia nigrescens and Macrocystis integrifolia

Chemical defense is assumed to be costly and therefore algae should allocate defense investments in a way to reduce costs and optimize their overall fitness. Thus, lifetime expectation of particular tissues and their contribution to the fitness of the alga may affect defense allocation. Two brown algae common to the SE Pacific coasts, Lessonia nigrescens Bory and Macrocystis integrifolia Bory, feature important ontogenetic differences in the development of reproductive structures; in L. nigrescens blade tissues pass from a vegetative stage to a reproductive stage, while in M. integrifolia reproductive and vegetative functions are spatially separated on different blades. We hypothesized that vegetative blades of L. nigrescens with important future functions are more (or equally) defended than reproductive blades, whereas in M. integrifolia defense should be mainly allocated to reproductive blades (sporophylls), which are considered to make a higher contribution to fitness. Herein, within-plant variation in susceptibility of reproductive and vegetative tissues to herbivory and in allocation of phlorotannins (phenolics) and N-compounds was compared. The results show that phlorotannin and N-concentrations were higher in reproductive blade tissues for both investigated algae. However, preferences by amphipod grazers (Parhyalella penai) for either tissue type differed between the two algal species. Fresh reproductive tissue of L. nigrescens was more consumed than vegetative tissue, while the reverse was found in M. integrifolia, thus confirming the original hypothesis. This suggests that future fitness function might indeed be a useful predictor of anti-herbivore defense in large, perennial kelps. Results from feeding assays with artificial pellets that were made with air-dried material and extract-treated Ulva powder indicated that defenses in live algae are probably not based on chemicals that can be extracted or remain intact after air-drying and grinding up algal tissues. Instead, anti-herbivore defense against amphipod mesograzers seems to depend on structural traits of living algae

Mariculture of the Asian kelp Undaria pinnatifida and the native kelp Saccharina lattisima along the Atlantic coast of southern Europe: An overview

Preprin

Interoperability, data control and battlespace visualization using XML, XSLT and X3D

This work represents the realization of Network-Centric goals of interoperability, information management, systems integration and cohesive battlespace visualization using networked computer technology. The application of structured data methodologies using the E xtensible Markup Language (XML) allows organizations and systems to exchange and process battlespace information cooperatively. The practical application of this technology is demonstrated. Governance of information systems using structured data and the rejection of proprietary, application specific solutions is a leadership responsibility that is defined as Data Control. XML is presented as a leadership control measure that can be used to achieve Network-Centricity on the battlefield. The fundamental principles of XML application development are presented in the context of warfighting. Exemplars address a cross-section of battlespace applications. The visualization of the physical battlefield is demonstrated with network delivered 3D terrain views. Geodesy and position reporting is addressed using an XML defined data structure to enforce interoperability. An XML expression of the Battlespace Generic Hub is applied to joint and multilateral interoperability and information exchange. An approach to the effective employment of multiple different, but cooperative, autonomous systems in the battlespace uses XML to define parameters that determine artificial intelligence multi-agent behavior and environmental factors. This thesis combines a critical analysis of the priorities of Network- Centricity and interoperability with practical and functional exemplars that demonstrate the efficacy of extensible architectures. The pragmatic approach is directed at the warfighter, and leadership challenges are identified.http://archive.org/details/interoperability109456290Captain, United States Marine CorpsApproved for public release; distribution is unlimited

Marine plants - an agricultural challenge

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