The analysis of marine algae photosynthetic pigments by high performance liquid chromatography
Master Thesis
1984
Permanent link to this Item
Authors
Supervisors
Journal Title
Link to Journal
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Publisher
University of Cape Town
Department
Faculty
License
Series
Abstract
A method of analysis of the photosynthetic pigments of in vitro algal cultures, using reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is described. This technique was extended to analysis of photosynthetic pigments in samples from the SIBEX-I Expedition; a preconcentration technique was developed to allow a reduction in sample volume for waters of low productivity. HPLC analysis allows accurate chlorophyll a determinations to be made in the presence of the spectrally similar chlorophyllide a, which has been found to be the major chlorophyll a breakdown product present in natural waters. Comparative studies with the SCOR-UNESCO method have shown that as a result of chlorophyllide interference the chlorophyll a concentrations are in fact over-estimates to varying degrees depending on the productivity of the biomass. In addition, quantification of chlorophylls b and c and the carotenoid complement allows identification of the major algal species present, and provides an indication of the physiological status of the bloom.
Description
Bibliography: pages 157-165.
Keywords
Reference:
Bacon, E. 1984. The analysis of marine algae photosynthetic pigments by high performance liquid chromatography. University of Cape Town.