The Ecology and Physiology of Seaweeds: An Overview
Islam Mahmoud El-Manaway, Sarah H. Rashedy
Abstract
Seaweeds are important components of the marine ecosystem and play a vital role in coastal habitats. On the other hand, seaweeds are vulnerable to global environmental alteration and anthropogenic influences. In this chapter, we review and discuss seaweed functional groups, spatial distribution, temporal dynamic, factors affecting their diversity, distribution and abundance, and their ecological role on a coral reef. We also explain the ways in which changes in the environment affect seaweed’s physiology, growth, and reproduction. Through research in the areas of environmental variation, population, community, and ecosystem-level responses, we can build on our present conception of seaweed physiology and climate change ecology to more effectually protect and sustainably manage coastal ecosystems.