The marine brown alga Fucus serratus represents one of the few multicellular plant species in which the process of fertilization can be studied relatively easily. Fertilization marks the onset of a cascade of events associated with egg activation. Fertilization in Fucus serratus bears several superficial similarities to fertilization in several animal systems. The essential features of Fucus serratus egg activation are compared with those of protostome and deuterostome animal systems. Ca2+ is required for egg activation in Fucus serratus and cytosolic [Ca2+] changes can be observed in fertilizing eggs. However, these are small and variable in comparison with those occurring in deuterostomes, and fertilization can proceed normally in the absence of any global cytosolic Ca2+ transients. A model for egg activation in Fucus serratus is presented, invoking a role for both Ca2+ influx and localized propagation of the sperm signal around the plasma membrane by an as yet unidentified mechanism. Polarity in Fucus serratus is acquired a considerable time after fertilization and the role of cytosolic Ca2+ gradients in the acquisition and expression of polarity is discussed. The problem of the signals associated with the onset of the cell cycle in the fertilized Fucus serratus egg is also addressed.
In the field: an interview with Harald Wolf
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In our new Conversation, Harald Wolf talks about his fieldwork experiences working with desert ants in Tunisia to understand their navigation.
Propose a new Workshop
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Our Workshops bring together leading experts and early-career researchers from a range of scientific backgrounds. Applications are now open to propose Workshops for 2024, one of which will be held in a Global South country.
Julian Dow steps down and John Terblanche joins the JEB team
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After 15 years with the journal, Julian Dow from University of Glasgow, UK, is stepping down as a Monitoring Editor. We wish Julian all the best for the future and welcome John Terblanche, Stellenbosch University, South Africa, who is joining the team. Julian talks about his long association with The Company of Biologists and the journal and John tells us about his life and career in this News article.
An accelerometer-derived ballistocardiogram method for detecting heart rate in free-ranging marine mammals
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Max Czapanskiy and co show how the resting heart rates of blue whales are immortalized in the accelerometry traces collected by motion sensing data tags.
Global change and physiological challenges for Amazonian fish
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In their Review, Adalberto Luis Val and Chris Wood discuss the physiological threats to the unique and diverse fish fauna of Amazonia.
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