Copper uptake and copper-induced physiological changes in the marine alga Cladophora prolifera (Roth.) Kutz. (Chlorophyta, Ulvophyceae)

Green algae of the genus Cladophora have been reported as being bioindicators of metal contamination all over the world. The degree of total as well as intracellular copper (Cu) uptakes by the alga after 24-h prolonged exposure with 0 (control), 50 and 500 mu M Cu doses, was compared with selected physiological markers. Increased intracellular Cu content in the Cladophora thalli was followed by decreased potassium (K) content, alteration of assimilation pigments composition, decreased integrity of chlorophyll a and its fluorescence. Increase of intracellular Cu was followed by the increases of TBARS and superoxide contents. While K content, chlorophyll a/b, chlorophyll a fluorescence and TBARS contents in C. prolifera were significantly altered as result of the lowest, 50 mu M Cu dose tested, levels of chlorophyll a + b and soluble proteins did not change even after application of the 500 mu M Cu dose.