Modulatory effect of the exudates released by the brown kelp Lessonia spicata on the toxicity of copper in early developmental stages of ecologically related organisms

Lessonia spicata is a key dominant species along the Pacific coast of South America, providing a habitat for many organisms. However, this role can be affected by abiotic stress, such as metals. To counteract the toxic effect, L. spicata, among other seaweeds, releases exudates that bind metals. In this study, tolerances to copper of organisms related to the kelp forest (spores of Ulva lactuca (Chlorophyceae) and L. spicata (Phaeophyceae) and Zoea I of Taliepus dentatus (Milne-Edwards, Crustacea)) were studied; then, exudates are assessed by their protective effect. Exudates increase the 48-h 50% effective concentration (EC(50)) of the germination of spores from 8 to 23 μg Cu L(−1) for U. lactuca and from 119 to 213 μg Cu L(−1) for L. spicata and the survival of the larvae Zoea I 48-h 50% of lethal concentration (LC(50)) from 144 to 249 μg Cu L(−1). Results indicated that exudates had a protective effect. Each species is specifically sensitive to copper. Crab larvae Zoea I were able to support higher doses, and exposure before hatching increased their tolerance.