Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1111/brv.12887
Licence creative commons licence
Title (Primary) Algal volatiles – the overlooked chemical language of aquatic primary producers
Author Saha, M.; Fink, P. ORCID logo
Source Titel Biological Reviews
Year 2022
Department ASAM; FLOEK
Volume 97
Issue 6
Page From 2162
Page To 2173
Language englisch
Topic T5 Future Landscapes
Keywords algae; biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs); chemical cues; chemical ecology; cyanobacteria; freshwater; infochemicals; marine
Abstract Volatiles are important ‘infochemicals’ that play a crucial role in structuring life on our planet, fulfilling diverse functions in natural and artificial systems. Algae contribute significant quantities to the global budget of volatiles, but the ecological roles of aquatic volatiles are not well understood. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of volatile compounds from freshwater and marine microalgae and marine macroalgae, with a focus on their ecological roles. We highlight the multiple reported functions of biogenic volatiles, ranging from intraspecific communication for reproduction, intra-bloom signalling and antioxidant functions, to various interspecific signal exchanges that may allow herbivores to locate them and function in defence against competitors and predators. Beyond reviewing our current understanding, we specifically highlight major knowledge gaps and emerging questions for algal volatile research. These novel perspectives have the potential to improve our understanding of aquatic ecosystems and thus need to be addressed in future research. Filling these gaps and addressing these questions will facilitate humanity's efforts to exploit aquatic volatiles in various applications.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=26390
Saha, M., Fink, P. (2022):
Algal volatiles – the overlooked chemical language of aquatic primary producers
Biol. Rev. 97 (6), 2162 - 2173 10.1111/brv.12887