An empirical model of the phytoplankton chlorophyll : carbon ratio-the conversion factor between productivity and growth rate
We present an empirical model that describes the ratio of phytoplankton chlorophyll a to carbon, Chl: C, as a function of temperature, daily irradiance, and nutrient-limited growth rate. Our model is based on 219 published measurements of algal cultures exposed to light-limited or nutrient-limited growth conditions. We illustrate an approach for using this estimator of Chl: C to calculate phytoplankton population growth rate from measured primary productivity. This adaptive Chl: C model gives rise to interactive light-nutrient effects in which growth efficiency increases with nutrient availability under low-light conditions. One implication of this interaction is the enhancement of phytoplankton growth efficiency, in addition to enhancement of biomass yield, as a response to eutrophication.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1995 |
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Title | An empirical model of the phytoplankton chlorophyll : carbon ratio-the conversion factor between productivity and growth rate |
DOI | 10.4319/lo.1995.40.7.1313 |
Authors | James E. Cloern, Christian Grenz, Lisa Vidergar-Lucas |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Limnology and Oceanography |
Index ID | 70185325 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Toxic Substances Hydrology Program |