Photosynthesis, respiration and nitrogen supply of plankton populations in stratified, frontal and tidally mixed shelf waters

Results of parallel photosynthesis and respiration measurements in stratified, frontal and mixed shelf waters using ¹⁴CO₂ and oxygen methods are described. Particulate ¹⁴C fixation appeared to give an underestimate of gross photosynthesis. Estimates of net photosynthetic rates are compared with obse...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Marine ecology. Progress series (Halstenbek) 1984-01, Vol.17 (2), p.201-213
Main Authors: Holligan, P.M, Williams leB., P.J, Purdie, D, Harris, R.P
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animal and plant ecology
Animal, plant and microbial ecology
aquatic organisms
Biological and medical sciences
Chlorophylls
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
Marine
Nitrates
Nitrogen
Photosynthesis
Phytoplankton
Plankton
plant biochemistry
plant physiology
Radiocarbon
RESEARCH PAPERS
Respiration
Sea water ecosystems
Surface water
Synecology
Thermoclines
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Summary:Results of parallel photosynthesis and respiration measurements in stratified, frontal and mixed shelf waters using ¹⁴CO₂ and oxygen methods are described. Particulate ¹⁴C fixation appeared to give an underestimate of gross photosynthesis. Estimates of net photosynthetic rates are compared with observed microheterotroph and calculated (from appropriate carbon biomass data) mesozooplankton respiration rates. In each of the 3 systems microheterotrophs were the major energy consumers. In surface stratified waters, turnover of plankton carbon was rapid compared to that in the light-limited, mixed water system and, under certain conditions, the phytoplankton may obtain > 50 % of their nitrogen requirement from ammonium excretion by zooplankton. Development of dinoflagellate blooms in the frontal region could be explained in terms of high rates of nitrate assimilation at the base of the thermocline, upward movement of the cells and low grazing mortality.
ISSN:0171-8630
1616-1599
DOI:10.3354/meps017201