Abstract

Callophyllis variegata (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta) is an edible species used in salads and soups in Asian countries. Research into its early stages and growth is required to develop cultivation. This study evaluated the effect of temperature and photoperiod on viability and germination in the laboratory and, subsequently, growth in the sea. Carpospores collected during different seasons from the localities of Chauman (41A degrees 47'S) and Puihuil (41A degrees 55'S), in southern Chile, were grown in Provasoli medium at 10 and 15 A degrees C. After 7 days, viability was higher in the photoperiod of 16:08 h (light/darkness) and 10 A degrees C, while germination was higher at 15 A degrees C in the same photoperiod. Viability was over 65 % in both localities in winter and spring, and germination was 74.6 and 87.5 %, respectively. Daily growth rates in the laboratory fluctuated between 2 and 10 %. Tetrasporophytic juveniles settled on cotton nets were grown on long lines at 3.5 m deep in the sea for 8 months. Growth and density of fronds were evaluated monthly. Epiphytic seaweeds such as Ulva sp. and Polysiphonia sp. were observed on the nets. C. variegata fronds grew up to approximately 8 cm, and the final density was between 10 and 40 ind/10 cm. A preliminary evaluation of culture costs is also presented.