Calcification in the articulated coralline alga Corallina pilulifera, with special reference to the effect of elevated Co2 concentration

Effect of addition of free carbon dioxide leading to a decline in pH, and the administering of carbonate and bicarbonate, on calcification, to the articulated coralline alga Corallina pilulifera, is analyzed. Carbondioxide obstructs calcification, while carbonate and bicarbonate promote calcification. Diurnal changes associated with calcification in the alga are also investigated. Photosynthetic and calcification activities increase in the presence of seawater. These processes are characterized by high levels of solubilized inorganic carbon concentrations at a stable pH of 8.2.