Functional ecological traits in young and adult thalli of canopy-forming brown macroalga <i>Gongolaria barbata</i> (Phaeophyta) from a transitional water system

Our findings revealed significant differences in the eco-physiological characteristics of <i>G. barbata</i> at different growth stages. It was observed that young thalli, allocate more energy to photosynthesis and chemical defenses by increasing the production of antioxidant compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. With growth, thalli likely adopt a more conservative strategy, reducing photosynthesis and promoting structural biomass accumulation to mitigate the potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to environmental stressors, such as the wavy way. Although our study focused on a single phase of <i>G. barbata</i> life cycle under winter settings, it offers preliminary insights into this species eco-physiological traits and auto-ecology. Future research could explore the potential implications of these findings, evaluating the species' resilience to environmental changes at the population level.