The existence of epiphyte on thallus Eucheuma denticulatum (Rhodophyceae) in varying depths cultivated with vertical net method

Abstract

The existence of macroepiphyte is one of the issues seaweed farmers often face. This research aims to explore the existence of macroepiphyte attached to seaweed Eucheuma denticulatum at varying depths using vertical net method. Research found that the highest and the lowest velocity of macroepiphyte on day -10 in the depth of 50 cm and 200 cm is 248,4 and 121,28 ind/m2/day. On day-20, in the depth of 100 cm and 200 cm is 333,54 and 270,01 ind/m2/day. The most dominating macroepiphyte in the attachment velocity is C. Crasa. Physical and chemical parameter showed around 29o-30oC. Current velocity 0,050-0,067 m/sec. Brightness 92%. Salinity 30-33‰. Nitrate 0,237-0,0416 mg/L. Phosphate 0,0015-0,0036 mg/L. Dissolved oxygen 5,7-6,2 mg/L. The obtained optimum environmental parameter and the type of the macroepiphyte attachment did not show any significant negative effect to the growth of E. denticulatum.