Primary productivity and carbon assimilation patterns in tropical marine phytoplankton

Primary productivity values measured at 3 stations in the Lakshadweep Sea (Laccadive Sea) varied from 0.44 to 2.11 mg C/m super(3)/h and were characterised by a distinct subsurface maxima. Over a diel cycle in the Minicoy Lagoon, the rates varied from 0.22 to 12.80 mg C/m super(3)/h and closely para...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Indian journal of marine sciences 1986-12, Vol.15 (4), p.205-211
Main Authors: Goes, JI, Devassy, V P
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Marine
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Summary:Primary productivity values measured at 3 stations in the Lakshadweep Sea (Laccadive Sea) varied from 0.44 to 2.11 mg C/m super(3)/h and were characterised by a distinct subsurface maxima. Over a diel cycle in the Minicoy Lagoon, the rates varied from 0.22 to 12.80 mg C/m super(3)/h and closely paralleled the diurnal changes in solar irradiance levels. Studies on the distribution of assimilated carbon into the major end products of photosynthesis showed that the synthesis of polysaccharides is favoured at higher light intensities. A higher proportion of protein synthesized was observed under conditions of low light intensity. Regression analysis between the percentage of protein synthesized and the productivity rates per unit chl a showed an inverse relationship. Changes in the nature of the end products of photosynthesis in relation to available light in 2 clones of marine phytoplankton, viz. Nitzschia closterium) and Pleurosigma sp., were in general agreement with those observed in natural populations.
ISSN:0379-5136