The Influence of Environmental Factors on the Distribution of Freshwater Algae: An Experimental Study: III. Effects of Temperature, Vitamin Requirements and Inorganic Nitrogen Compounds on Growth

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Growth rates of fifteen species of algae were measured at temperatures between 4⚬ C and 36⚬ C. The maximum growth rates of oligotrophic species tended to be smaller than those of eutrophic species. Temperature optima for growth under the conditions used did not differ between the two groups. Possible adaptive advantages of low growth rates in infertile waters are discussed in relation to theoretical generalizations on the maturity of ecosystems. Some members of both groups required vitamin B12 for growth, and most species tested could use either nitrate or ammonium as a nitrogen source.