Direct release of embryonic sporophytes from adult Nereocystis luetkeana (Laminariales, Ochrophyta) in a high latitude estuary

Kelp life history pathways alternate between macroscopic sporophytes that produce spores and microscopic gametophytes gametes. Occasionally, an alternative pathway is seen. This study examined the circumstances by which high latitude estuarine bull kelp, Nereocystis luetkeana, foregoes â??free-living stages releasing embryonic directly from sori. Sori were collected adult N. luetkeana eight locations within Kachemak Bay, Alaska in 2018 2020 to examine spatial temporal development of on Distinctions made sori first-generation overwintered adults assess influence parental age sporophyte release. Further distinctions attached drifting individuals status attachment substrate Inspection propagules released after 48-h incubations indicated occasionally alongside viable spores. Though as early spring, it was not evident they bound seasonal or limits. The percent ranged 0% 100% but significantly different adults, nor individuals. Nevertheless, characteristic might have ecological advantages for luetkeana. Key words: Alaska; alternative; kelp; sporophytes; history;