Abstract:
The impact of non-indigenous algae into Antarctica was investigated at Scott Base and was limited to soil particles adherent to fresh vegetables flown in from New Zealand (lettuce and potatoes). Preliminary studies were conducted in Christchurch from dust on crates awaiting transport south and shoes of people boarding aircraft. Isolates were made of colonies from the initial culture plates. Samples were also taken of visible algal growths on soils, in streams and in ponds in the vicinity of Scott Base. Also soils were removed from the driest surfaces where no vegetation was visible. Cultures established were used to indicate the composition of the lcoal algal flora for comparisons with isolates from imported fresh vegetables.
Broady, P.A. Smith , R.A. A preliminary investigation of the diversity, survivability and dispersal of algae introduced into Antarctica by human activity. Proceedings of the NIPR Symposium on Polar Biology 7: 185-197, 1994.
