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Dryad

Data from: Predation fear modulated thermal traits of the harmful algal bloom species Phaeocystis globosa

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Jan 03, 2025 version files 101.95 KB

Abstract

To evaluate whether non-consumptive effects alter thermal responses, P. globosa grown alone and those exposed to grazing cues associated with ciliates and copepods were maintained at temperatures ranging from 13°C to 30°C. P. globosa exposed to both grazing risks exhibited strong defensive responses, including higher colony abundances and greater colony diameters. P. globosa with induced defenses developed colonies at 15–30°C, whereas non-induced P. globosa formed colonies only within the narrow range of 17–25°C. Predation risks increased P. globosa tolerance to extreme temperatures, potentially explaining the occurrence of colonial blooms at lower latitudes. In addition, exposure to grazing by ciliates and copepods significantly expanded the breadth of the thermal performance curve by increasing the critical thermal maximum by 4.85°C, thereby reducing the vulnerability of P. globosa blooms to warming.  We provide data on the influence of predation risk on the thermal trait of P. globosa.