The Importance of Bacteria and other Microorganisms in the Sea-water at Macquarie Island

Abstract

An account is given of some simple experiments on the decomposition of the giant kelp, Durvillea antarctica (Cham.) Hariot. Certain bacteria isolated from sea-water are listed and the marine origin of airborne bacteria at Macquarie I. is indicated. It is considered that, indirectly, kelp may form an important source of food for the seals and bird life of this region.