Approaches to minimize the proliferation of Mougeotia (Chlorophyta) mats in a forestry production nursery

Substantial production losses occur in some of the nurseries of Mondi Fores ts due to the periodical emergence of Mougeotia spp. mats on the growth sub strata of seedlings and cuttings. This study was aimed at establishing stra tegies to alleviate this problem without negatively affecting plantlet grow th. The approaches investigated included modifications of the composition o f the seedling/cuttings growth substrata, pH of the liquid fertilizer and t he addition of a non-toxic green dye to the fertilizer. Significant curtail ing of algal colonization and proliferation were observed when a surface la yer of bark was added to the growth substratum and with the green dye treat ment. The information obtained in this study can be incorporated into nurse ry management practices as preventative and remedial treatments.