The biology of Harveyella mirabilis (Cryptonemiales, Rhodophyceae). III. Spore germination and subsequent development within the host Odonthalia floccosa (Ceramiales, Rhodophyceae)

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Abstract
A field and laboratory study of the parasitic red alga H. mirabilis revealed that spore germination and subsequent development of the parasite is dependent on the presence of a suitable host. Initial spore germination occurs in host wounds that are inflicted primarily by grazing isopods and amphipods. Rhizoidal cells intrusively grow into the walls between host cells and establish secondary pit connections with host cells. Subsequent development is characterized by rapid proliferation of the rhizoidal cells within the host, a rupturing of the host''s outer wall region and the final development of a colorless reproductive pustule. Several alternate substrata were used in a study of spore germination requirements, but only those that contained freeze-dried, powdered O. floccosa and O. washingtoniensis were successful in inducing the germination of Harveyella spores.

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