The effects of changed temperature, nutrient availability and ultraviolet-B radiation flux on aquatic microorganisms.

By: Andrew Longmire

Abstract

Photosynthesis by marine phytoplankton contributes around 50% of global net primary production (NPP). Global warming as a result of human activities is provoking changes in the world’s oceans that can inhibit these cells, including changes in the availability of nutrients. Ultraviolet-B radiation (UVBR) fluxes reaching the biosphere have also increased because of human activities. It is known that nutrient availability and UVBR flux affect algal community assemblages. The interactions of these influences, and the responses of algae to them, are complex. The recent application of remote sensing technology has seen a major improvement in our capacity to observe the effects of changing conditions on marine algae at an ecosystem level. Studies of the physiological effects of nutrient limitation and UVBR flux have advanced understanding of disturbances at the level of the cell. Such research allows speculation regarding the potential perturbations of oceanic systems at spatial scales between the extremes. Specific investigation of the influence of cell size on the susceptibility of algal taxa to disruption would be useful.

Additional keywords

Marine; Global Warming; Algal Ecology; Stratification; Positive feedback loops.

Introduction 

The effects of warming oceans on algae

The effects of UVBR on algae

Interactions between UVB sensitivity and nutrient availability

Cellular and ecological effects

Conclusion 

References