Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute
Marine Botany

Conchocelis phase of Porphyra

    Basic information about the Conchocelis stage:

    • Diploid stage, site of meiosis
    • Produces conchosporangia, which are fertile cell rows
    • The conchosporangia release conchospores, which are haploid.
    • The conchospores develop into the gametophyte stage.

    The Conchocelis stage of Porphyra is also the sporophyte stage, which is diploid. It is described as a filmanetous stage, with varying colors, from pinkish to reddish. This life history stage can often be found boring on calcium carbonate shells. Originally known as Conchocelis rosea, an entirely separate algae, the discovery of this life history stage of Porphyra revolutionized the farming of this edible seaweed. The Conchocelis stage grows conchosporangium which eventually release conchospores. The conchospores are haploid and grow to become the gametophyte or thallus stage of the alga. As a result of this knowledge, farmers are able to properly cultivate the separate stages of Porphyra to maximize the amount of thallus produced, which can be sold to the market.

    Porphyra columbina

    Copyright 1994-1999 by Charles J. O'Kelly and Tim Littlejohn. Distribution for noncommercial purposes permitted so long as this copyright notice is included and acknowledgement is made. Modifications not permitted without the written consent of the authors.

    Based on research, it has been determined that the Conchocelis stage is produced from carpospores, which are released under long-day conditions, usually during the spring. The development of the conchosporangium on the Conchocelis stage is triggered by photoperiod effects, generally under short day conditions. The release of conchospores from the conchosporangium are also released under short day conditions. For more information on the photoperiodic effects on the life history of Porphyra, click here!

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© 1999 Lisa Chen. All rights reserved. Use for educational purposes permitted with acknowledgment and notice.  

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