A comparative analysis of the organic and inorganic carbon content of Halimeda and Penicillus (Chlorophyta, Bryopsidales) in a coastal subtropical lagoon
Standing stocks of the calcifying algae, Halimeda and Penicillus, have remained stable over the 10 years surveyed (2007–2017) in Florida Bay (USA), a subtropical lagoon. The maximum contribution of calcium carbonate (CaCO3; 779.75 g m−2) was lower compared to tropical lagoons. Halimeda was more abundant and had higher inorganic:organic carbon ratios compared to Penicillus. The abundance of Penicillus varied across the surveyed sites, Sprigger Bank, Bob Allen Keys, and Duck Key, while its inorganic:organic carbon ratios did not vary significantly. Our long-term study provides a critical baseline that can help understand fluctuations in carbonate sediment production by calcareous algae in subtropical coastal waters
