ISSN:
1439-863X
Keywords:
Key words Microphytobenthos
;
Photosynthesis
;
Seasonal and diurnal variation
;
P-I curve
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Seasonal variations in photosynthetic rates by microphytobenthos and phytoplankton at the Isshiki tidal flat in Mikawa Bay were measured with a 14C combustion method. In addition, diurnal variations in the photosynthetic rate and photosynthesis versus irradiance (P-I) curves were obtained through in situ incubation. The photosynthetic rate of microphytobenthos (annual average, 13.9 ± 6.4 mg C m−2 h−1) did not show a remarkable change, and they maintained a higher production rate than phytoplankton (annual average 9.0 ± 5.1 mg C m−2 h−1) throughout the year. The P-I curves from in situ experiments showed that the photosynthetic activity of microphytobenthos at the laboratory irradiance (250 μE m−2 s−1) was 56% of that at the maximum irradiance (1200 μE m−2 s−1) in situ. In the in situ experiments, the chlorophyll a concentration, photosynthetic rate, and activity of microphytobenthos varied greatly throughout the day, influenced by tidal submersion/emersion and daylight. From an analysis of these results, it is considered that microphytobenthos contributed greatly to primary production in this ecosystem throughout the year by adapting suitably to intertidal environments.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s102010070019
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