Photosynthetic physiology and growth as a function of colony size in the cyanobacterium Nostoc sphaeroides

Abstract

Algal size can affect the rate of metabolism and of growth. Different sized colonies of Nostoc sphaeroides were used with the aim of determining the effects of colony size on photosynthetic physiology and growth. Small colonies showed higher maximum photosynthetic rates per unit chlorophyll, higher light saturation point, and higher photosynthetic efficiency (α) than large colonies. Furthermore, small colonies had a higher affinity for DIC and higher DIC-saturated photosynthetic rates. In addition, small colonies showed higher photosynthetic rates from 5 – 45°C than large colonies. There was a greater decrease in Fv/Fm after exposure to high irradiance and less recovery in darkness for large colonies than for small colonies. Relative growth rate decreased with increasing colony size. Small colonies had less chl a and mass per unit surface area. The results indicate that small colonies can harvest light and acquire DIC more efficiently and have higher maximum photosynthetic rates and growth rates than large colonies.