Open AccessHeavy metals have different effects on mycelial morphology of Achlya bisexualis as determined by fractal geometry
Author(s) -
Lundy Sarah D.,
Payne Richard J.,
Giles Kristian R.,
Garrill Ashley
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
fems microbiology letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.899
H-Index - 151
eISSN - 1574-6968
pISSN - 0378-1097
DOI - 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2001.tb10766.x
Subject(s) - mycelium , hypha , fractal dimension , fractal , chemistry , morphology (biology) , geometry , botany , biology , mathematics , mathematical analysis , genetics
The morphological response, as measured by changes to mycelial area, radial extension and border fractal dimension, of the oomycete Achlya bisexualis to Cu, Co, Hg, Zn and Cd at concentrations of between 0.05 and 3 mM is described. All of the metals decreased mycelial area and radial extension. Border fractal dimension increased in the presence of Cu, Co and Hg with individual hyphae extending out beyond the mycelial margin. In the presence of 3 mM Hg these hyphae displayed spiral growth. Zn and Cd had no effect on border fractal dimension. We suggest that all of the metals slow growth and that Cu, Co and Hg may also disrupt the relationship between tip growth and branching at the edge of the mycelium.