Short Term Effects of Hydrocarbons on the Photosynthesis and Respiration of Some Phytoplankton Species

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Abstract
The short-term effects of hydrocarbons on photosynthesis, respiration and distribution of end products were studied in the planktonic algae, Cyclotella cryptica, Pavlova lutheri and Skeletonema costatum. Stimulation of photosynthesis was observed in all cases with low oil concentrations while higher concentrations caused inhibition. The toxicity levels seemed to be correlated with the cell wall, which may play a protective role. The effect on respiration was less severe compared to photosynthesis. The pattern of the distribution of the end products showed decreased biosynthesis of metabolic intermediates and lipids and increased biosynthesis of polysaccharides and proteins. The photosynthetic mechanism is apparently affected.