The photosynthetic activity of Paramecium bursaria endosymbiotic algae in varying temperature conditions

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of higher temperatures on the photosynthesis of endosymbiotic Chlorella sp. of two Paramecium bursaria Ehrenberg 1831 strains originating from regions with a warmer and colder climate (Ardmore – USA and Kamchatka – Russia, respectively). After seven days of protozoa incubation at 18°C (control), 21°C, 24°C, 27°C, 30°C and 33°C, the chlorophyll a fluorescence measurements were carried out and fluorescence spectra were measured in blue-green and red light. As a result of the studies, a significant effect of higher temperature on the photosynthesis process of P. bursaria endosymbionts was observed. Weekly incubation at 33°C was lethal for both protozoan strains in comparison to the control temperature (18°C). The blue-green fluorescence spectra were characterised by marked peaks at 450 nm and 490 nm. Within the red light range, the peak was observed at about 690 nm with a lesser arm at 730 nm. Endosymbionts from Kamchatka were more sensitive to the temperature increase than algae from areas with relatively warm climates.