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Interactions between marine algae and bacteria


Trophic interactions between bacteria and unicellular algae in aquatic systems are well documented in the literature as the microbial loop plays a critical role in important processes as carbon flux and nutrient regeneration. In contrast, chemical interactions between bacteria and harmful phytoplankton and their potential impact on the production of biotoxins and population dynamics have received comparatively little attention. The scientific goal is to identify specific mechanisms of action involving allelochemicals in bacterial-algal interactions and their role in harmful algal bloom (HAB) ecology. The overall objective of the project is to explore whether or not HAB species can selectively promote the growth of bacteria, through the production of allelochemicals that may inhibit the killing of algicidal strains. The project aims to determine 1) the antibiotic properties of allelochemicals using model algal-bacterial communities 2) whether bacteria affect gene expression and the production of allelochemicals, 3) whether bacteria sensitive to allelochemicals produce algicidal compounds, and 4) the nature of poorly characterized allelochemicals. Natural plankton communities and selected phytoplankton and bacteria cultures will be studied using a multidisciplinary approach i.e. physiological, chemical and molecular-based techniques. The project will contribute to enhance technological, scientific and professional skills of the applicant and facilitate the reintegration of full time research and the possibility to attain a professorship over a short time period.

Field of science

  • /natural sciences/biological sciences/marine biology
  • /natural sciences/biological sciences/microbiology/phycology
  • /natural sciences/biological sciences/microbiology/bacteriology

Call for proposal

See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF)


Am Handelshafen 12
27570 Bremerhaven
Activity type
Research Organisations
EU contribution
€ 137 868,56
Administrative Contact
Catherine Audebert (Ms.)