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Photoprotection mechanisms are ubiquitous among photosynthetic organisms. The photoprotection capacity of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is correlated with protein levels of stress-related light-harvesting complex (LHCSR) proteins, which are strongly induced by high light (HL). However, the dynamic response of overall thylakoid structure during acclimation to growth in HL has not been fully understood. Here, we combined live-cell super-resolution microscopy and analytical membrane subfractionation to investigate macroscale structural changes of thylakoid membranes during HL acclimation in Chlamydomonas. Subdiffraction-resolution live-cell imaging revealed that the overall thylakoid structures became thinned and shrunken during HL acclimation. The stromal space around the pyrenoid also became enlarged. Analytical density-dependent membrane fractionation indicated that the structural changes were partly a consequence of membrane unstacking. The analysis of both an LHCSR loss-of-function mutant, npq4 lhcsr1, and a regulatory mutant that over-expresses LHCSR, spa1-1, showed that structural changes occurred independently of LHCSR protein levels, demonstrating that LHCSR was neither necessary nor sufficient to induce the thylakoid structural changes associated with HL acclimation. In contrast, stt7-9, a mutant lacking a kinase of major light-harvesting antenna proteins, had a slower thylakoid structural response to HL relative to all other lines tested but still showed membrane unstacking. These results indicate that neither LHCSR- nor antenna-phosphorylation-dependent HL acclimation are required for the observed macroscale structural changes of thylakoid membranes in HL conditions., Competing Interests: Declarations. Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Microalgae can respond to long-term increases in light intensity by altering the concentration of photosynthetic complexes. Under active growth, the ability of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to acclimate to excess light is dependent on cell division to reduce the concentration of photosynthetic complexes. But, in batch culture, cells eventually reach stationary phase where their ability to divide is limited; this should impact their capacity to undergo photoacclimation. Our goal is to dissect excess-light responses as cells approach stationary phase and to determine how the strategies of photoacclimation differ compared to cells in the exponential-growth phase. In this study, cultures exited exponential growth and transitioned into a declining growth phase (DGP), where cells continued a slow rate of growth for the next seven days in both low (LL) and high-light (HL). During this period, both cultures experience a conditional senescence-related decline in chlorophyll levels. Under HL, however, the senescing cultures have a rapid decline in PSII reaction centres, maintain a stable concentration of LHCII antenna, rapidly increase LHCSR levels, and have a sustained increase in Fo/Fm. Collectively this implies that the remaining antenna act as pH-dependent, quenching centres, presumably to protect the senescing chloroplast against HL. We discovered that acclimating to HL post-exponential phase involves active degradation that is intertwined with the normal senescence process that allowed for a limited rate of cell division., (Crown Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Understanding the photoacclimation response of macroalgae across broad spatial and temporal scales is necessary for predicting their vulnerability to environmental changes and quantifying their contribution to coastal primary production. This study investigated how the photosynthesis-irradiance response and photosynthetic pigment content of the kelp Ecklonia radiata varies both spatially and seasonally among seven sites located across a turbidity gradient in the Hauraki Gulf, north-eastern New Zealand. Photosynthesis-irradiance curves were derived under laboratory conditions for whole adult E. radiata using photorespirometry chambers. Lab-derived photosynthesis-irradiance curves in summer were also compared with in situ measurements made on kelp at each of the seven study sites. Photosynthetic parameters and pigments showed clear seasonal patterns across all sites as demonstrated by higher photosynthetic pigment levels and photosynthetic efficiency occurring in autumn and winter, and higher maximum rates of photosynthesis and respiration occurring in summer. Lamina biomass was similar across sites, yet thalli exhibited a clear photokinetic response to increasing turbidity. At turbid sites photosynthetic pigment levels and photosynthetic efficiency was higher, and respiration and saturation and compensation irradiances lower, compared to high-light sites. The results presented here further our understanding of low-light acclimation strategies in kelp and highlight the degree of seasonality in photosynthetic parameters. Though E. radiata demonstrates a clear capacity to photoacclimate to a degrading light environment, further research is needed to investigate the extent to which the observed acclimation can offset the likely negative effects of increasing turbidity on kelp forest primary production.

Watershed-based pollution is a common form of coral reef degradation. Affected reefs are often highly turbid, where light-limitation confines the distribution of photosynthetic benthic taxa and the capacity for photoacclimation is important for survival. We investigated low light photoacclimation in a Symbiodinium-hosting bioeroding sponge using in situ PAM fluorometry. Cliona aff. viridis was artificially shaded (70 & 95% ambient light reduction) on a low turbidity Indonesian reef for 25 days, with a subsequent 14-day recovery period. Significant changes in rETR max , and qP, and a non-significant but observable decline in E k, demonstrated that C. aff. viridis is able to photoacclimate to conditions of extreme light reduction and recover within a relatively short period of time. The sponge is therefore unlikely to be light limited on even the most turbid reefs. However, other aspects of watershed-pollution such as sedimentation may still limit their distribution in affected coastal waters., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Light and temperature are major drivers in the ecology and biogeography of symbiotic dinoflagellates living in corals and other cnidarians. We examined variations in physiology among 11 strains comprising five species of clade A Symbiodinium We grew cultures at 26°C (control) and 32°C (high temperature) over a duration of 18 days while measuring growth and photochemical efficiency ( F v / F m ). Responses to thermal stress ranged from susceptible to tolerant across species and strains. Most strains exhibited a decrease in cell densities and F v / F m when grown at 32°C. Tolerance to high temperature ( T 32 ) was calculated for all strains, ranging from 0 (unable to survive at high temperature) to 1 (able survive at high temperature). There was substantial variation in thermotolerance across species and among strains. One strain had a T 32 close to 1, indicating that growth was not reduced at 32°C for only this one strain. To evaluate the combined effect of temperature and light on physiological stress, we selected three strains with different levels of thermotolerance (tolerant, intermediate and susceptible) and grew them under five different light intensities (65, 80, 100, 240 and 443 µmol quanta m -2 s -1 ) at 26 and 32°C. High irradiance exacerbated the effect of high temperature, particularly in strains from thermally sensitive species. This work further supports the recognition that broad physiological differences exist not only among species within Symbiodinium clades, but also among strains within species demonstrating that thermotolerance varies widely between species and among strains within species., (© 2017 The Author(s).)

Cryoconite is a matrix of sediment, biogenic polymer and a microbial community that resides on glacier surfaces. The phototrophic component of this community is well adapted to this extreme environment, including high light stress. Photoacclimation of the cryoconite phototrophic community on Longyearbreen, Svalbard, was investigated using in situ variable chlorophyll fluorescence. Rapid light curves (RLCs) and induction-recovery curves were used to analyse photosystem II quantum efficiency, relative electron transport rate and forms of downregulation including non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and state transitions in cyanobacteria. Phototrophs used a combination of behavioural and physiological photochemical downregulation. Behavioural downregulation is hypothesised to incorporate chloroplast movement and cell or filament positioning within the sediment matrix in order to shade from high light, which resulted in a lack of saturation of RLCs and hence overestimation of productivity. Physiological downregulation likely consisted of biphasic NPQ, comprising a steadily induced light-dependent form and a light-independent NPQ that was not reversed with decreasing light intensity. State transitions by cyanobacteria were the most likely physiological downregulation employed by cyanobacteria within the mixed phototroph community. These findings demonstrate that cryoconite phototrophs combine multiple forms of physiological and behavioural downregulation to optimise light exposure and maximise photosynthetic productivity. This plasticity of photoacclimation enables them to survive productively in the high-light stress environment on the ice surface., (© FEMS 2017. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Kleptoplasty is a remarkable type of photosynthetic association, resulting from the maintenance of functional chloroplasts--the 'kleptoplasts'--in the tissues of a non-photosynthetic host. It represents a biologically unique condition for chloroplast and photosynthesis functioning, occurring in different phylogenetic lineages, namely dinoflagellates, ciliates, foraminiferans and, most interestingly, a single taxon of metazoans, the sacoglossan sea slugs. In the case of sea slugs, chloroplasts from macroalgae are often maintained as intracellular organelles in cells of these marine gastropods, structurally intact and photosynthetically competent for extended periods of time. Kleptoplasty has long attracted interest owing to the longevity of functional kleptoplasts in the absence of the original algal nucleus and the limited number of proteins encoded by the chloroplast genome. This review updates the state-of-the-art on kleptoplast photophysiology, focusing on the comparative analysis of the responses to light of the chloroplasts when in their original, macroalgal cells, and when sequestered in animal cells and functioning as kleptoplasts. It covers fundamental but ecologically relevant aspects of kleptoplast light responses, such as the occurrence of photoacclimation in hospite, operation of photoprotective processes and susceptibility to photoinhibition. Emphasis is given to host-mediated processes unique to kleptoplastic associations, reviewing current hypotheses on behavioural photoprotection and host-mediated enhancement of photosynthetic performance, and identifying current gaps in sacoglossan kleptoplast photophysiology research.

There are several well-described acclimation responses to excess light in green algae but the effect on metabolism has not been thoroughly investigated. This study examines the metabolic changes during photoacclimation to high-light (HL) stress in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. Using principal component analysis, a clear metabolic response to HL intensity was observed on global metabolite pools, with major changes in the levels of amino acids and related nitrogen metabolites. Amino acid pools increased during short-term photoacclimation, but were especially prominent in HL-acclimated cultures. Unexpectedly, we observed an increase in mitochondrial metabolism through downstream photorespiratory pathways. The expression of two genes encoding key enzymes in the photorespiratory pathway, glycolate dehydrogenase and malate synthase, were highly responsive to the HL stress. We propose that this pathway contributes to metabolite pools involved in nitrogen assimilation and may play a direct role in photoacclimation. Our results suggest that primary and secondary metabolism is highly pliable and plays a critical role in coping with the energetic imbalance during HL exposure and a necessary adjustment to support an increased growth rate that is an effective energy sink for the excess reducing power generated during HL stress., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Cryptophytes are abundant and ubiquitous microalgae that constitute a major plastid source for kleptoplastidic ciliates and dinoflagellates. Despite their ecological significance, the understanding of their light preferences and photophysiology remains limited. Here, we provide a comprehensive study of the response of the haploid strain Teleaulax amphioxeia (Cr10EHU) to varying light irradiance. This strain is capable of growing under a wide range of irradiance levels, notably by finely tuning the different pigments bound to the membrane light‐harvesting proteins. Analysis of the luminal phycoerythrin content revealed remarkable flexibility, with phycoerythrin emerging as a pivotal protein facilitating acclimation to varying light levels. Detailed ultrastructure examinations unveiled that this adaptability was supported by the synthesis of large thylakoidal vesicles, likely enhancing the capture of green photons efficiently under low light, a phenomenon previously undocumented. Teleaulax amphioxeia Cr10EHU effectively regulated light utilization by using a cryptophyte state transition‐like process, with a larger amplitude observed under high growth irradiance. Furthermore, our results revealed the establishment of growth irradiance‐dependent non‐photochemical quenching of fluorescence, likely inducing the dissipation of excess light. This study underscores the particularities and the significant photoadaptability of the plastid of the haploid form of T. amphioxeia. It constitutes a comprehensive photophysiological characterization of the Cr10EHU strain that paves the way for future studies of the kleptoplastidy process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acclimation of corals to light is known to rely on multiple strategies working at different timescales. Among them, photosynthetic alternative electron flows (AEFs) could act as photoprotective mechanisms under fluctuating light intensities. In this work, we first compared the use of AEFs in shallow and mesophotic colonies of the coral Stylophora pistillata by carrying out joint measurements of oxygen exchange and photosystems quantum yields. We observed similar capacities to re-route photosynthetically derived electrons toward oxygen (Mehler reaction) and to perform cyclic electron flow around photosystem I under high light intensity in both colony types. But in contrast to mesophotic colonies that hosted Cladocopium, the photosynthetic apparatus of Symbiodinium microadriaticum hosted by their shallow counterparts was notably able to drive a higher number of electrons, displayed a higher thermal dissipation of absorbed light energy. Then, a short-term light stress was applied to evaluate the plasticity of the photosynthetic apparatus. Both shallow and mesophotic colonies showed fast acclimation to the low light regime. In contrast, under the high light regime, mesophotic colonies showed a limited capacity to dissipate light energy and were strongly photoinhibited, though their PSI activity was partly preserved and likely involved cyclic electron flow. This study shows how important the photosynthetic alternative electron flows are in acclimation processes to light and how the plasticity of the photosynthetic processes in Symbiodiniaceae may shape the vertical distribution of the coral holobionts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marine environment is a crucial component of global biogeochemical cycles. Recent BGC-Argo observations provide new opportunities to study the profiles of biogeochemical parameters. The study analyzed the diurnal variations of temperature, salinity, chlorophyll-a and dissolved oxygen using a high-frequency (∼5 h) cycle BGC-Argo float in the Bay of Bengal. The hydrography showed the existence of a strong barrier layer with a thickness of around 30 m, with fresh water on top and an inversion layer within it. Analysis showed that the Mixed Layer Depth (MLD) was dominated by diffuse convection, while the Isothermal Layer Depth (ILD) exhibited salt-fingering regimes. In the upper layer (0–60 m), temperature showed significant variation on a daily scale; however, notable changes were not observed for salinity. Additionally, temperature and chlorophyll-a were found to be strongly linked to solar insolation. The mean chlorophyll-a in the upper layer increased from 0600 h and peaked around 1800 h local time. However, surface chlorophyll-a increased only from 1100 h to 1800 h. It is suggested that this difference between surface and mean chlorophyll-a during high availability of sunlight was due to the process of photoacclimation. The dissolved oxygen cycle closely followed the variability of biomass production. The similarity between dissolved oxygen and the difference between the surface and mean chlorophyll-a further indicated photoacclimation variations on a diurnal scale. The Sverdrup model was used to indicate luminosity and an accumulation time of 14 h was used to show a strong correlation with diel chlorophyll-a variation. The work highlights the importance of having high-frequency BGC-Argo floats with finer vertical resolution and the need for time-series observations of biological parameters in the Bay of Bengal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photosynthetic organisms adapt to a variety of light conditions. Codium fragile, a macrosiphonous green alga, binds a unique carbonyl carotenoid, siphonaxanthin, to its major photosynthetic light-harvesting complexes, allowing it to utilize dim blue-green light for photosynthesis. Here, we describe the absolute chemical structure of a novel siphonaxanthin biosynthetic precursor, 19-deoxysiphonaxanthin, that accumulates specifically in the photosynthetic antenna only when cultivated under blue-green light. The action spectra of pigment accumulation suggest that siphonaxanthin biosynthesis is regulated by a specific wavelength profile. The results provide clues to a new acclimation mechanism to withstand hours of intense light at low tide and why siphonous algae have been growing invasively on the world's coasts for more than a century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient use of light is essential to achieve good performances in microalgae cultivation systems. This can be challenging particularly under solar conditions where light is highly dynamic (e.g., day/night cycles, rapid changes in wind and weather conditions). Microalgae display different mechanisms to optimize light use efficiency. In the short term, when high light is encountered, several processes of photoprotection can be involved to avoid cell damages (e.g., xanthophyll cycle). In the long term, when cells are exposed to a different light intensity, pigment content changes, i.e., photoacclimation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the photosynthetic response of Chlorella vulgaris cultures grown in closed lab-scale, torus-shape photobioreactor under well-controlled light conditions, namely, constant and dynamic light transitions. Experiments were conducted in continuous mode with detailed characterization of the light attenuation conditions for each condition, as represented by the mean rate of photon absorption (MRPA), so as to characterize the time responses of the photosynthetic cells toward light changes. This enables to observe short-term and long-term responses with their own characteristic times. The mechanisms involved were found to be different between increasing and decreasing light transitions. Furthermore the MRPA was found a valuable parameter to relate the effect of light to biological responses (i.e., pigment changes) under constant light and dynamic light conditions. Key points • MRPA proved valuable to relate C. vulgaris responses to light changes. • A linear evolution was found between pigment content and MRPA in continuous light. • A rising PFD step induced fast protection and acclimation mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying how natural phytoplankton adjust their photosynthetic properties to the quantity and quality of underwater light (i.e. light climate) is essential to understand primary production. A wavelength-dependent photoacclimation strategy was assessed using a multi-color pulse-amplitude-modulation chlorophyll fluorometer for phytoplankton samples collected in the spring at 19 locations across the English Channel. The functional absorption cross section of photosystem II, photosynthetic electron transport (PETl) parameters and non-photochemical quenching were analyzed using an original approach with a sequence of three statistical analyses. Linear mixed-effects models using wavelength as a longitudinal variable were first applied to distinguish the fixed effect of the population from the random effect of individuals. Population and individual trends of wavelength-dependent PETl parameters were consistent with photosynthesis and photoacclimation theories. The natural phytoplankton communities studied were in a photoprotective state for blue wavelengths (440 and 480 nm), but not for other wavelengths (green (540 nm), amber (590 nm) and light red (625 nm)). Population-detrended PETl values were then used in multivariate analyses (partial triadic analysis and redundancy analysis) to study ecological implications of PETl dynamics among water masses. Two wavelength ratios based on the microalgae saturation parameter Ek (in relative and absolute units), related to the hydrodynamic regime and underwater light climate, clearly confirmed the physiological state of microalgae. They also illustrate more accurately that natural phytoplankton communities can implement photoacclimation processes that are influenced by in situ light quality during the daylight cycle in temporarily and weakly stratified water. Ecological implications and consequences of PETl are discussed in the context of turbulent coastal ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satellite‐based remote sensing allows for global estimates of phytoplankton primary productivity by converting measurements of ocean color or photon absorption into units of carbon fixation. Models which perform this conversion often require an estimate of phytoplankton photoacclimation state such as the carbon to chlorophyll a ratio (C:Chl). Recently, our group developed a new photoacclimation model that can be applied to models of primary production. The model assumes that the phytoplankton photoacclimation state is not affected by periods of darkness during deep mixing beneath the photic zone, due to reduction in the plastoquinone pool in darkness and the subsequent deactivation of the signal for chlorophyll synthesis. In this study, we tested these assumptions by culturing the marine diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii under fluctuating light conditions simulating three different optical depths with progressively increasing deep mixing periods. The photoacclimation state, measured by the ratio of C:Chl, in T. weissflogii was not affected by changes in the length of simulated deep mixing periods. In addition, analysis of photosynthesis vs. irradiance (PE) curves showed that increases in optical depth caused decreases in both the maximum Chl‐normalized rate of photosynthesis (Pbmax) and in the slope of light‐limited photosynthesis (αb), but had no effect on the half‐saturation irradiance (Ek, another metric of photoacclimation). However, measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence during simulated deep mixing did not support the hypothesis that the PQ pool was reduced during dark periods. Thus, our findings support the use of the photoacclimation model for estimating primary production while suggesting the need for further research into the mechanisms controlling photoacclimation in the upper mixed layer environment of the ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satellite‐based remote sensing allows for global estimates of phytoplankton primary productivity by converting measurements of ocean color or photon absorption into units of carbon fixation. Models which perform this conversion often require an estimate of phytoplankton photoacclimation state such as the carbon to chlorophyll a ratio (C:Chl). Recently, our group developed a new photoacclimation model that can be applied to models of primary production. The model assumes that the phytoplankton photoacclimation state is not affected by periods of darkness during deep mixing beneath the photic zone, due to reduction in the plastoquinone pool in darkness and the subsequent deactivation of the signal for chlorophyll synthesis. In this study, we tested these assumptions by culturing the marine diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii under fluctuating light conditions simulating three different optical depths with progressively increasing deep mixing periods. The photoacclimation state, measured by the ratio of C:Chl, in T. weissflogii was not affected by changes in the length of simulated deep mixing periods. In addition, analysis of photosynthesis vs. irradiance (PE) curves showed that increases in optical depth caused decreases in both the maximum Chl‐normalized rate of photosynthesis (Pbmax) and in the slope of light‐limited photosynthesis (αb), but had no effect on the half‐saturation irradiance (Ek, another metric of photoacclimation). However, measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence during simulated deep mixing did not support the hypothesis that the PQ pool was reduced during dark periods. Thus, our findings support the use of the photoacclimation model for estimating primary production while suggesting the need for further research into the mechanisms controlling photoacclimation in the upper mixed layer environment of the ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dinophysis dinoflagellates are predators of Mesodinium ciliates, from which they retain only the plastids of cryptophyte origin. The absence of nuclear photosynthetic cryptophyte genes in Dinophysis raises intriguing physiological and evolutionary questions regarding the functional dynamics of these temporary kleptoplastids within a foreign cellular environment. In an experimental setup including two light conditions, the comparative analysis with Mesodinium rubrum and the cryptophyte Teleaulax amphioxeia revealed that Dinophysis acuminata possessed a smaller and less dynamic functional photosynthetic antenna for green light, a function performed by phycoerythrin. We showed that the lack of the cryptophyte nucleus prevented the synthesis of the phycoerythrin α subunit, thereby hindering the formation of a complete phycoerythrin in Dinophysis. In particular, biochemical analyses showed that Dinophysis acuminata synthesized a poorly stable, incomplete phycoerythrin composed of chromophorylated β subunits, with impaired performance. We show that, consequently, a continuous supply of new plastids is crucial for growth and effective photoacclimation in this organism. Transcriptome analyses revealed that all examined strains of Dinophysis spp. have acquired the cryptophyte pebA and pebB genes through horizontal gene transfer, suggesting a potential ability to synthesize the phycobilin pigments bound to the cryptophyte phycoerythrin. By emphasizing that a potential long-term acquisition of the cryptophyte plastid relies on establishing genetic independence for essential functions such as light harvesting, this study highlights the intricate molecular challenges inherent in the enslavement of organelles and the processes involved in the diversification of photosynthetic organisms through endosymbiosis. [Display omitted] • Stolen cryptophyte plastids exhibit reduced efficiency in host cellular environments • Absence of cryptophyte nuclear genes hinders Dinophysis ' photoacclimation • Dinophysis acuminata relies on prey ingestion to regulate phycoerythrin levels • Dinophysis have acquired phycoerythrin synthesis genes of cryptophyte origin Dinophysis dinoflagellates use plastids stolen from prey. Garric et al. show that these plastids cannot synthesize a complete phycoerythrin, a crucial photosynthetic protein. Dinophysis thus relies on prey ingestion for photoacclimation. It is noteworthy that some Dinophysis have acquired phycoerythrin synthesis genes from cryptophytes during evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A trapezoidal" relationship between chlorophyll and surface PAR at centers of subtropical gyres is reported. • Multiple processes co-regulated chlorophyll dynamics at the center of South Pacific Gyre. • The "trapezoidal" spiral relationship indicated a dynamic equilibrium influenced by the alternating co-regulation mechanisms. Understanding the driving mechanism of phytoplankton dynamics is key to forecasting future changes in the ocean. Here, we report an apparent "trapezoidal" relationship between chlorophyll concentrations (Chl) and surface photosynthetically available radiation (PAR(0)) at the center of the South Pacific Gyre (cSPG) based on 18 years of MODIS Aqua measurements. A comparison of Chl with a photoacclimation model revealed that photoacclimation alone could not explain the temporal dynamics of Chl. Instead, the Chl dynamics were explained by a combination of photoacclimation, nutrient limitation, and the grazing pressure of zooplankton at different times throughout the year. An annual "trapezoidal" spiral relationship between Chl and PAR(0) suggested that the steady state of phytoplankton populations at the cSPG could be influenced by the alternation of co-regulation mechanisms during a year. Because this same pattern occurs in other subtropical gyres, this understanding of the underlying mechanisms not only facilitates simulating and forecasting phytoplankton dynamics but also provides a new perspective on how multiple stressors may impact phytoplankton communities in a warmer climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satellite observations show higher near‐surface phytoplankton chlorophyll (Chl) in anticyclonic eddies (AEs) than in cyclonic eddies (CEs) in the subtropical gyres, which is opposite to the prevailing features in midlatitude oceans. Recent studies have attributed this anomalous effect solely to changes in phytoplankton biomass, therefore reached a conclusion that AEs are more productive than CEs, contrary to the conventional eddy pumping paradigm. Here, we show that the Chl variations are due mainly to physiological adjustments instead. The high Chl in AEs is mostly explained by photoacclimation to low‐light environment caused by deepened mixing and more rapid light attenuation, and vice versa for CEs. Such a scenario indicates that phytoplankton are likely more cellular pigmented, rather than more abundant, in the AEs than in the CEs. These findings invite us to rethink the effects of eddies on oceanic productivity and carbon cycling in the subtropical gyres. Plain Language Summary: Oceanic mesoscale eddies occupy a quarter of the global ocean surface. They have been widely documented to form and maintain high near‐surface phytoplankton chlorophyll (Chl) patches with horizontal scales of O (100 km) for months. This signal has long been interpreted as changes in phytoplankton abundance and primary production arising from changes in nutrient supply driven by eddy dynamics. However, Chl is not simply a measurement of phytoplankton abundance. It also reflects changes in intracellular pigmentation originate from light‐driven and/or nutrient‐driven physiological adjustments. Here, we show that physiological response is an important component of the Chl variability induced by eddies across the global ocean. Especially, in the subtropical gyres, the eddy‐driven Chl variability is more dominated by physiological adjustments than by the changes in phytoplankton biomass. For anticyclonic eddies in these regions, deepened mixing and more rapid light attenuation reduce the exposure of phytoplankton to light, upregulate the synthesis of intracellular Chl, thus resulting in higher Chl than in cyclonic eddies. In contrast, no apparent difference in phytoplankton carbon was detected between these two types of eddies. Such a decoupling response of phytoplankton Chl from biomass invites us to rethink the effects of eddies on oceanic productivity and carbon cycling. Key Points: Physiological adjustments make considerable contributions to the response of phytoplankton chlorophyll to eddies in the global oceanEddy‐driven chlorophyll variability in the subtropical gyres is more dominated by changes in phytoplankton physiology than in biomassPhotoacclimation plays an important role in the processes of physiological adjustments in eddies in the subtropical gyres [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sargassum horneri (Turner) C. Agardh is a genus of brown algae and plays an important role in marine ecosystem. However, the inhabiting area of S. horneri has been decreasing sharply in China. To understand the photoacclimation and photoregulation strategies of S. horneri in responses to temperature and light, S. horneri was cultured under different temperatures [18°C (LT) and 26°C (HT)] and light intensities [60 µmol(photon) m-2 s-1 (LL) and 120 µmol(photon) m-2 s-1 (HL)] for 7 d, and then the chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters were measured. The results showed that the maximum electron transfer rate occurred at low temperature and high light (LT-HL) condition. The high temperature was the predominant factor for causing inhibition of PSII, lowering the effective quantum yield of PSII, and reducing the nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ). However, high light could improve the photoprotective ability via enhancing the NPQ. On the other hand, a strong linear relationship was observed between NPQ and the electron transport efficiency (a); the increase of NPQ could reduce the a value and avoid damage from high light stress to PSII. Therefore, S. horneri was found to be well adapted to grow under LT-HL conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diatoms are a type of photosynthetic phytoplankton that can acclimate to the light level of their environment. Diatoms from different habitats exhibit different photoacclimation characteristics; those from relatively low-light intensity habitats present relatively high photosynthetic activity, high light-harvesting pigment (Chla) content, and low xanthophyll content. Conversely, diatoms from high-light intensity environments have lower photosynthetic activity, less Chla content, and efficient xanthophyll cycling. Hence, diatoms can maintain high growth and photosynthetic activity within a wide range of light intensities. Whether the mechanisms of such adaptability are a consequence of biological photoacclimation to different light intensities or interspecific differences is unknown. Here, we show that differences in photoacclimation ability are more significant than species differences. We found similar species compositions in low- and high-light habitats of the Hanjiang River, China; however, there were remarkable differences in rapid light-response curve parameters. The photoacclimation of algae and trends in their photosynthetic activity can be estimated by rapid detection techniques. We isolated three diatom species common to both habitats and grew them under various light intensities, finding that they have an excellent ability to acclimate to local light conditions. Diatoms can use physiological strategies to handle light fluctuations, but only for short periods. Our results provide a theoretical basis for controlling algal blooms through light management. With knowledge of the photoacclimation characteristics of diatoms and according to the availability of local water conservancy facilities, it is possible to use light management to control diatom blooms more efficiently than with conventional techniques, thereby reducing water usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With shallow coral reefs suffering from an ongoing rapid decline in many regions of the world, the interest in studies on mesophotic coral ecosystems (30–150 m) is growing rapidly. While most photoacclimation responses in corals were documented within the upper 30 m of reefs, in the present study we transplanted fragments of a strictly mesophotic species from the Red Sea, Euphyllia paradivisa, from 50 m to 5 m for a period of 3 years. Following the retrieval of the corals, their physiological and photosynthetic properties of the corals were tested. The transplanted corals presented evidence of photosynthetic acclimation to the shallow habitat, lower sensitivity to photoinhibition, and a high survival percentage, while also demonstrating a reduced ability to utilize low light compared to their mesophotic counterparts. This long-term successful transplantation from a mesophotic depth to a shallow habitat has provided us with insights regarding the ability of mesophotic corals and their symbionts to survive and withstand shallow environments, dominated by a completely different light regime. The extensive characterization of the photobiology of E. paradivisa, and its photoacclimation response to a high-light environment also demonstrates the plasticity of corals and point out to mechanisms different than those reported previously in shallower corals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we explore the responses of photosynthesis and related cellular processes in the thermotolerant microalga Micractinium sp. acclimated to limiting and saturating irradiances combined with elevated temperatures, using a novel computer‐controlled multi‐sensor system. This system allows for the monitoring of online values of oxygen exchange during photosynthesis and respiration with high accuracy. Micractinium sp. cells showed maximum growth and net oxygen production rates under the optimal temperature of 25°C regardless of the light acclimation conditions. Our results show that the upper thermal threshold for Micractinium sp. photosynthesis and growth ranges between 35°C and 40°C. This microalga exhibited stable photosynthetic efficiency and effective non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) under saturating light, and was more susceptible to temperature change when acclimated to limiting light levels. These results demonstrate that the acclimation of thermotolerant microalgae to saturating light helps to enhance the thermal tolerance of PSII. This feature results from enhanced heat stability of PSII photochemistry and oxygen evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we explore the responses of photosynthesis and related cellular processes in the thermotolerant microalga Micractinium sp. acclimated to limiting and saturating irradiances combined with elevated temperatures, using a novel computer‐controlled multi‐sensor system. This system allows for the monitoring of online values of oxygen exchange during photosynthesis and respiration with high accuracy. Micractinium sp. cells showed maximum growth and net oxygen production rates under the optimal temperature of 25°C regardless of the light acclimation conditions. Our results show that the upper thermal threshold for Micractinium sp. photosynthesis and growth ranges between 35°C and 40°C. This microalga exhibited stable photosynthetic efficiency and effective non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) under saturating light, and was more susceptible to temperature change when acclimated to limiting light levels. These results demonstrate that the acclimation of thermotolerant microalgae to saturating light helps to enhance the thermal tolerance of PSII. This feature results from enhanced heat stability of PSII photochemistry and oxygen evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the freshwater red algal order Batrachospermales are often described as shade‐adapted. Nevertheless, recent ecophysiological studies have demonstrated species‐level differences in acclimation to a range of irradiances. Lympha mucosa occurs in open and shaded portions of temperate streams and is abundant during summer months, suggesting it tolerates high and low irradiances. Specimens of L. mucosa were collected from open (sun‐acclimated) or shaded (shade‐acclimated) sites and exposed to low (<20 μmol photons · m−2 · s−1) or high (220 μmol photon · m−2 · s−1) light for 72 h to examine mechanisms of photoacclimation at the transcriptional level. High‐throughput sequence data were used to design specific primers for genes involved with light harvesting and these were quantified with qPCR. The greatest significant difference in transcript abundances was observed in the psaA gene (Photosystem I P700 apoprotein), and site‐type had an effect on these responses. Shade‐acclimated thalli were 22‐fold down‐regulated at high light, whereas sun‐acclimated thalli were only 5‐fold down‐regulated. Another gene involved with Photosystem I (petF ferredoxin) was down‐regulated at high light, but only individuals from the shaded site were significantly different (4‐fold). In thalli from both sites, cpeA (Phycoerythrin alpha chain) was down‐regulated at high light. Although not statistically significant, patterns consistent with previous physiological and transcriptomic studies were uncovered, namely the inverse response of transcriptional activity in genes that encode phycobiliproteins. In support of previous ecophysiological studies of freshwater red algae, these data indicate significant transcriptional changes involving Photosystem I and phycobiliprotein synthesis are required to tolerate and grow at various irradiances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The underwater light field of lakes, estuaries, and oceans may vary greatly in spectral composition. Phytoplankton in these environments must contain pigments that absorb the available colors of light. If spectral quality changes, acclimation to the new spectral environment would confer an ecological advantage in terms of photosynthesis and growth. Here, we explored the capacity of eight marine cryptophytes to adjust pigmentation in response to changes in spectral irradiance and related effects on light absorption, photosynthetically useable radiation (PUR), and growth rate. The pigment composition of all species changed in some way in response to shifts in spectral irradiance, but not all pigment changes could be considered advantageous in the context of chromatic acclimation. For most species, absorption by chl‐a and chl‐c2 resulted in highest absorption in the blue region, highest PUR values for blue‐light grown cells, and highest growth rates in blue light. The exception was Chroomonas mesostigmatica (CCMP 1168), which contains a high percentage of Cryptophyte‐Phycocyanin (Cr‐PC) 645, absorbs strongly in the orange‐to‐red region of the spectrum, and grew fastest under red light. The position and magnitude of the maximum and secondary absorption peak of Cr‐PC 569, the phycobiliprotein pigment of Hemiselmis cryptochromatica, varied with spectral irradiance. The underlying cause remains unknown, but may represent a mechanism by which cryptophytes optimize photon capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of the genus Ulva (Chlorophyta) are regarded as opportunistic organisms, which efficiently adjust their metabolism to the prevailing environmental conditions. In this study, changes in chlorophyll‐a fluorescence‐based photoinhibition of photosynthesis, electron transport rates, photosynthetic pigments, lipid peroxidation, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant metabolism were investigated during a diurnal cycle of natural solar radiation in summer (for 12 h) under two treatments: photosynthetically active radiation (PAR: 400–700 nm) and PAR+ ultraviolet (UV) radiation (280–700 nm). In the presence of PAR alone, Ulva rigida showed dynamic photoinhibition, and photosynthetic parameters and pigment concentrations decreased with the intensification of the radiation. On the other hand, under PAR+UV conditions a substantial decline up to 43% was detected and an incomplete fluorescence recovery, also, P‐I curve values remained low in relation to the initial condition. The phenolic compounds increased their concentration only in UV radiation treatments without showing a correlation with the antioxidant activity. The enzimatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) increased over 2‐fold respect at initial values during the onset of light intensity. In contrast, catalase (CAT) increased its activity rapidly in response to the radiation stress to reach maxima at 10 a.m. and decreasing during solar. The present study suggests that U. rigida is capable of acclimating to natural radiation stress relies on a concerted action of various physiological mechanisms that act at different times of the day and under different levels of environmental stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal stratification of the water column promotes contrasting conditions with respect to irradiance level and nutrient concentration for phytoplankton growth, demanding more research on which environmental factor has more importance in determining the photosynthetic performance of the communities. For this purpose, two research surveys were performed in several coastal stations located in the Alboran Sea (Western Mediterranean Sea) at the end of 2008 and 2009 summers. Primary productivity was estimated by determining photosynthetic electron transport rates (ETRB) and inorganic carbon assimilation rates (PP C B) at two different depths within the water column, surface and chlorophyll a vertical maximum depth (CM). At the surface, communities presented similar photo-acclimation features during the two surveys, which were different from those obtained for the CM samples that grew at more favorable nutrient and light conditions. The acclimation response to surface conditions consisted in the reduction in the chlorophyll a (Chl a) cell content, and the increase in the Chl a specific light absorption coefficient [a*(λ)], initial slope of ETRB vs. Irradiance curves (αB) and light saturation parameter (E k), indicating that the communities were acclimated to stress conditions (i.e. high PAR and UVR dose and low nutrient availability). However, the in situ primary productivity was unaffected; on the contrary, both PP C B and ETRB in situ increased with respect to the values obtained for communities growing at CM depth. Furthermore, Φ ETR,C (i.e. the molar ratio of transported e− to assimilated carbon) in surface samples was similar to CM samples (8.0 ± 3.5 compared with 7.5 ± 5.3 mol e− [mol−1 C], respectively). The analysed phytoplankton communities were mainly dominated by diatom. This corroborates that diatoms possess a greater capacity to cope with high irradiance levels, even at low nutrient concentrations registered during this study at surface waters. • Variability in phytoplankton photosynthetic parameters is controlled by irradiance. • Diatoms possess high capacity to cope with high irradiance and low nutrients. • Primary production modeling based on chlorophyll shall be done with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are capable of acclimating to dynamic light environments, as they have developed mechanisms to optimize light harvesting and photosynthetic electron transport. When absorption of light exceeds photosynthetic capacity, various physiological protective mechanisms prevent damage of the photosynthetic apparatus. Xanthophyll pigments provide one of the most important photoprotective mechanisms to dissipate the excess light energy and prevent photoinhibition. In this study, we coupled a mechanistic model for phytoplankton photoinhibition with the global biogeochemical model Regulated Ecosystem Model version 2. The assumption that photoinhibition is small in phytoplankton communities acclimated to ambient light allowed us to predict the photoprotective needs of phytoplankton. When comparing the predicted photoprotective needs to observations of pigment content determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography, our results showed that photoprotective response seems to be mediated in most parts of the ocean by a variable ratio of xanthophyll pigments to chlorophyll. The variability in the ratio appeared to be mainly driven by changes in phytoplankton community composition. Exceptions appeared at high latitudes where other energy dissipating mechanisms seem to play a role in photoprotection and both taxonomic changes and physiological acclimation determine community pigment signature. Understanding the variability of community pigment signature is crucial for modeling the coupling of light absorption to carbon fixation in the ocean. Insights about how much of this variability is attributable to changes in community composition may allow us to improve the match between remotely sensed optical data and the underlying phytoplankton community. Key Points: Phytoplankton long‐term photoprotective response is mediated in most parts of the ocean by a variable pool of xanthophyll pigmentsThe variability in the pool of xanthophyll pigments is mainly driven by changes in phytoplankton community composition in the tropical and subtropical oceanAt high latitudes other photoprotection mechanisms play a role, and both taxonomic shifts and photoacclimation determine community pigment signature [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study carried-out to understand the phytoplankton genera in the low light (less than 50 µmol/m²/s of photosynthetically available radiation) for the estuarine and coastal waters of Goa, India. There were 93 phytoplankton genera observed of which the most abundant were Skeletonema spp., Leptocylindrus spp., Thalassiosira spp., Cerataulina sp., and Fragilariopsis sp. The centric diatom Skeletonema spp. was the most abundant phytoplankton genera observed during all the seasons. Similarly, other abundant genera observed all through the year in low light in the coastal and estuarine waters were Cerataulina sp., Chaetoceros spp., Coscinodiscus spp., Leptocylindrus spp., Navicula spp., Nitzschia spp., Pleurosigma spp., Pseudo-nitzschia spp., and Thalassiosira spp. Phytoplankton observed only in estuarine waters were Bacillaria sp., Planktoniella sp., Biddulphia sp., and Asterionellopsis spp., while Enotia sp., Oxytoxum sp., were observed only in the coastal waters during the summer season. Contributions of chlorophyll a and fucoxanthin were relatively higher in low light regions, while the photoprotective pigment β-carotene was lower than observed at the surface. The maximum spectral light available at the low light region varied for water types, and was 537 to 581 nm in the coastal waters, while it shifted to longer wavelengths 561 to 648 in the estuarine waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light and temperature are major drivers in the ecology and biogeography of symbiotic dinoflagellates living in corals and other cnidarians. We examined variations in physiology among 11 strains comprising five species of clade A Symbiodinium. We grew cultures at 268C (control) and 32°C (high temperature) over a duration of 18 days while measuring growth and photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm). Responses to thermal stress ranged from susceptible to tolerant across species and strains. Most strains exhibited a decrease in cell densities and Fv/Fm when grown at 32°C. Tolerance to high temperature (T32) was calculated for all strains, ranging from 0 (unable to survive at high temperature) to 1 (able survive at high temperature). There was substantial variation in thermotolerance across species and among strains. One strain had a T32 close to 1, indicating that growth was not reduced at 32°C for only this one strain. To evaluate the combined effect of temperature and light on physiological stress, we selected three strains with different levels of thermotolerance (tolerant, intermediate and susceptible) and grew them under five different light intensities (65, 80, 100, 240 and 443 μmol quanta m-2 s-1) at 26 and 32°C. High irradiance exacerbated the effect of high temperature, particularly in strains from thermally sensitive species. This work further supports the recognition that broad physiological differences exist not only among species within Symbiodinium clades, but also among strains within species demonstrating that thermotolerance varies widely between species and among strains within species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of mathematical models capable of accurate predictions of the photosynthetic productivity of microalgae under variable light conditions is paramount to the development of large-scale production systems. The process of photoacclimation is particularly important in outdoor cultivation systems, whereby seasonal variation of the light irradiance can greatly influence microalgae growth. This paper presents a dynamic model that captures the effect of photoacclimation on the photosynthetic production. It builds upon an existing semi-empirical model describing the processes of photoproduction, photoregulation and photoinhibition via the introduction of acclimation rules for key parameters. The model is calibrated against a dataset comprising pulsed amplitude modulation fluorescence, photosynthesis rate, and antenna size measurements for the microalga Nannochloropsis gaditana in several acclimation states. It is shown that the calibrated model is capable of accurate predictions of fluorescence and respirometry data, both in interpolation and in extrapolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoacclimation is a cellular process that allows phytoplankton to change the intracellular chlorophyll- a concentration ( Chl ) in relation to environmental factors such as light and nutrients. This process is currently overlooked by standard operational ocean colour algorithms used to retrieve information about both the phytoplankton standing stock and production. Here, we describe the photoacclimation effect on the phytoplankton seasonal cycle through the chlorophyll to carbon ratio ( Chl : C ) over the Mediterranean Sea, using SeaWiFS (1998–2007) monthly data. Chlorophyll was calculated through a regionalized empirical algorithm and Carbon was estimated from the particle backscattering, after subtraction of the non-algal contribution (b bp NAP ). Historically, b bp NAP has been neglected or assumed constant, and only recently its space-time variability started to be taken into account. Here, bootstrapping simulations are used to compute the monthly b bp NAP s over a former bio-regionalization map of the Mediterranean Sea, all highlighting significant space-time variability. Resulting Chl : C varies within a factor of three, demonstrating the important role that photoacclimation plays at seasonal and basin scales. Lowest Chl : C values (~ 0.0013) are observed during summer; this is due to the combined effect of high irradiation, shallow mixing and low nutrient concentration. Maximum values (~ 0.031) are observed in winter and spring dominated by both low solar radiation, deeper mixing and high nutrient availability. It emerges that a better view of the phytoplankton space and time variability can be achieved through the joint use of Chl and C . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High productivity in intertidal microphytobenthic communities is achieved despite exposure to extreme and dynamic conditions (e.g. light, salinity, temperature). As an adaptation to this hostile environment, most of the microalgae species inhabiting fine-sediment habitats are motile, being able to migrate vertically within the uppermost layers of the sediment and actively regulating their exposure to light. In this work we tested the hypothesis that the migratory photobehaviour of benthic diatoms, the dominant group in microphytobenthic assemblages, is conditioned by their photophysiological state (i.e. photoacclimation). Unialgal cultures of the motile diatom Navicula cf. recens were grown under contrasting light regimes (20 and 300 μmol quanta m − 2 s − 1 ) to induce different photoacclimation states. The migratory response to light was characterized by studying the distribution of motile cells along a light gradient (photoaccumulation curve), using a custom-build photoaccumulation chamber. The photoaccumulation curves were constructed by measuring the accumulation of cells along the light gradient using a light transmission index. The variation of the photophysiological state of the cells along the light gradient was measured using Pulse Amplitude Modulation (PAM) fluorometry (maximum quantum yield and light response curves of the relative electron transport rate of photosystem II). The results showed clearly different photoaccumulation curves for low and high-light acclimated cells. Although in both cases, cells avoided extreme low and high light levels, maximum cell accumulation was reached at markedly different light intensities depending on growth light conditions and resulting photoacclimation state: 72 and 104 μmol quanta m − 2 s − 1 for the low and high light-acclimated cells, respectively. Strong relationships were found between photophysiological parameters characterizing photoacclimation or susceptibility to photoinhibition and migratory light response, supporting that this diatom uses motility to select the optimal light exposure according to its photophysiological preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoresponse of chlorophyll a (Chl a) fluorescence and xanthophyll pigments to light was studied in the diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii with respect to various durations of dark storage. The light-limited slope (a) obtained from the electron transport rate (ETR) versus the irradiance curve remained steady, whereas the light-saturated rate (ETRmax) decreased gradually during dark storage. Consequently the light-saturation index (Ek=ETRmax/a) decreased with time, suggesting that cells acclimate to dark conditions. Dark-acclimated cells were exposed to light-dark conditions with varied silicate availability. The maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm), as well as the changes in the a and the ETRmax, increased immediately to the maximum on the first day and decreased for the second half of the light exposure period. The ratio of diatoxanthin (DT) to the xanthophyll pigment diadinoxanthin (DD) and DT (DT/ [DD+DT]) represents thermal dissipation behavior through non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). This study indicates that Fv/Fm and Ek are a good index to follow photoacclimation during a transition from continuous dark conditions to the L-D cycle of saturated light. This study also indicates that dark-acclimated T. weissflogii can acclimate to the growth irradiance by the enhancement of photosynthetic activity with changes in xanthophyll pigments, in relation to the dark duration and silicate availability. Such a response to light suggests that the vegetative cells of T. weissflogii could possibly proliferate at ports in the coastal zone on a global scale after ejection into high light environments from the darkness of a ship's ballast water tank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria have evolved a number of acclimation strategies to sense and respond to changing nutrient and light conditions. Leptolyngbya sp. JSC-1 was recently shown to photoacclimate to far-red light by extensively remodeling its photosystem (PS) I, PS II and phycobilisome complexes, thereby gaining the ability to grow in far-red light. A 21-gene photosynthetic gene cluster (rfpA/B/C, apcA2/B2/D2/E2/D3, psbA3/D3/C2/B2/ H2/A4, psaA2/B2/L2/I2/F2/J2) that is specifically expressed in far-red light encodes the core subunits of the three major photosynthetic complexes. The growth responses to far-red light were studied here for five additional cyanobacterial strains, each of which has a gene cluster similar to that in Leptolyngbya sp. JSC-1. After acclimation all five strains could grow continuously in far-red light. Under these growth conditions each strain synthesizes chlorophylls d, f and a after photoacclimation, and each strain produces modified forms of PS I, PS II (and phycobiliproteins) that absorb light between 700 and 800 nm. We conclude that these photosynthetic gene clusters are diagnostic of the capacity to photoacclimate to and grow in far-red light. Given the diversity of terrestrial environments from which these cyanobacteria were isolated, it is likely that FaRLiP plays an important role in optimizing photosynthesis in terrestrial environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the photoacclimation state and photosynthetic rate of cells in the highly eutrophic upper Gulf of Thailand (UGOT), using fast repetition rate (FRR) fluorometry. Observations revealed differences in photosystem II (PSII) parameters: the maximum photochemical quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), the functional absorption cross-section of PSII (σPSII) and the rate of reoxidation of the primary PSII electron acceptor (1/τQa), which were dependent on the hydrographic structure of the water column. FRR-derived parameters were used to estimate the chlorophyll a-normalized, photosynthetic rate (PB); the photosynthesis vs. irradiance (P–E) curves were derived from in situ PB profiles. The P–E parameters differed markedly between the upper stratified waters and the mixed water column; that is, the maximum photosynthetic rate $P_{{\rm max}}^{\rm B} $ and the light saturation parameter (Ek) were higher in the upper stratified waters, while the initial slope of the P–E curve (α) was higher in the mixed waters. This indicates that cells acclimated to relatively bright light dominated the upper stratified waters, while cells acclimated to lower light dominated the mixed waters. A significant, positive relationship was found between the average PB in the euphotic zone and surface photosynthetically available radiation, from all profiles at both sampling sites, which suggests that phytoplankton photosynthesis in the UGOT was controlled primarily by irradiance. Furthermore, as stress from nutrient-limitation is unlikely in the UGOT, cells might realize their photosynthetic potential by means of photoacclimation, even under the different light regimes present in the UGOT. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The coralline alga, Corallina officinalis, is a widely distributed intertidal species in temperate coastal regions. It is usually exposed to high fluctuations of light intensity, light quality, temperature, and desiccation, all of which affect the temporal and spatial distribution as well as the morphology and the metabolism of this alga. In laboratory experiments we examined the effects of different light intensities (50, 100, and 200 μmol photons m-2 s-1) on photosynthesis, calcification, photosynthetic pigment contents (chlorophyll a and carotenoids), and growth rate of C. officinalis to clarify its photoacclimation strategies. Net photosynthesis, calcification and dissolution rates based on weight were not sensitive to irradiance. Although, photosynthesis and calcification did not clearly respond to light intensity, photosynthetic pigment contents were significantly lower at higher light intensities. In addition, higher irradiances induced significant enhancement of gross photosynthesis based on chlorophyll a. As a result, the specific growth rate was significantly stimulated by high light intensity. Our results suggest that photoacclimation of C. officinalis to different light conditions may be regulated to optimize growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the acclimation to different light intensities in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum is controlled by light quality perception mechanisms. Therefore, semi-continuous cultures of P. tricornutum were illuminated with equal amounts of photosynthetically absorbed radiation of blue (BL), white (WL), and red light (RL) and in combination of two intensities of irradiance, low (LL) and medium light (ML). Under LL conditions, growth rates and photosynthesis rates were similar for all cultures. However, BL cultures were found to be in an acclimation state with an increased photoprotective potential. This was deduced from an increased capacity of non-photochemical quenching, a larger pool of xanthophyll cycle pigments, and a higher de-epoxidation state of xanthophyll cycle pigments compared to WL and RL cultures. Furthermore, in the chloroplast membrane proteome of BL cells, an upregulation of proteins involved in photoprotection, e.g. the Lhcx1 protein and zeaxanthin epoxidase, was evident. ML conditions induced increased photosynthesis rates and a further enhanced photoprotective potential for algae grown under BL and WL. In contrast, RL cultures exhibited no signs of acclimation towards increased irradiance. The data implicate that in diatoms the photoacclimation to high light intensities requires the perception of blue light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Atrazine is frequently detected in freshwater ecosystems exposed to agricultural waste waters and runoffs worldwide and it can affect non-target organisms (mainly photoautotrophic) and modify community structure. Meanwhile, light environment is known to vary between aquatic ecosystems, but also before and during the exposure to atrazine and these variations may modify the sensitivity to atrazine of photoautotroph organisms. In this study, 10 species of phytoplankton (chlorophytes, baccilariophytes and cyanophytes) acclimated to low or high light intensities were exposed to atrazine and light of different intensities to compare their combined effect. Our data showed that chlorophytes and baccilariophytes were more resistant to atrazine compared to cyanophytes for all light conditions. Atrazine was found to inhibit , Ψ 0, P M and non-photochemical quenching for all species indicating an effect on electron transport, primary production and photoregulation processes. These data also indicate a higher sensitivity of Ψ 0 (average Ψ 0-EC50 of 91±11nM or 19.6±0.9μgL−1) compared to (average of 217±19nM or 46.8±4.1μgL−1) and suggest that photoregulation processes activated in presence of light decrease the effect of atrazine. We also showed that increasing light intensity decreased in both low (except baccilariophytes) and high light acclimated conditions. Despite this similarity, most species acclimated to high light were found to have higher or similar compared to low light acclimated cells and thus, were less sensitive to atrazine in low light and high light environments. We concluded that an increase in the plastoquinone pool induced by acclimation to high light decreased the sensitivity to atrazine in phytoplankton and we hypothesized that the effect observed was the result of a dilution of atrazine toxicity through increased binding site availability (quinones) combined with increased photoregulation processes capacity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on a study on in situ phytoplankton primary production using fixed-depth incubations. Under the study, an individual-based model of turbulence and phytoplankton growth, acclimation and inhibition has been used to compare primary production associated with incubation and cell production that mixes in the surface mixing layer (SML). Results show that the net depth-integrated primary productivity in the freely mixing water column is overestimated by depth-integrated productivity from fixed-depth incubations. One finding states that overall productivity is reduced due to a rise in photodamage probability (kd) and in irradiance maximum.

Abstract: Rhodactis rhodostoma and Discosoma unguja are the most common corallimorpharians on coral reefs in the northern Red Sea, where individuals of R. rhodostoma form large aggregations on intertidal reef flats and those of D. unguja occupy holes and crevices on the reef slope. Aside from these contrasting patterns of microhabitat, little is known concerning their mechanisms of photoacclimation to environmental conditions. We demonstrate here that different mechanisms of photoacclimation operate in both species and that these differences explain, in part, the contrasting patterns of distribution and abundance of these common corallimorpharians. Experimental exposure of the species'' respective polyps to the synergistic effects of ultraviolet and photosynthetically active radiation revealed that endosymbiotic zooxanthellae protected the host R. rhodostoma from photooxidation damage. Zooxanthellae do so by reducing their chlorophyll pigment and cellular abundance, as well as by adjusting their efficiency of light absorption and utilization according to the level of irradiance. The host photoprotects its endosymbionts from harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR) by synthesizing enzymatic antioxidants against oxygen radicals. In contrast, individuals of D. unguja utilize a behavioral mechanism of photoacclimation in which they physically migrate away from exposed areas and towards shaded habitats and thus avoid the damaging biological effects of UVR. We conclude that a combination of physiological and behavioral mechanisms appear to control microhabitat segregation between these corallimorpharian species on tropical reefs. These various mechanisms of local adaptation to environmental conditions may be largely responsible for the wide distributional ranges of some corallimorpharians, and may enable these common reef organisms to tolerate environments that are highly variable, both spatially and temporally. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A mechanistic model of microalgae is used to explore the implications of modifying microalgal chlorophyll content and photosynthetic efficiency with an aim to optimising commercial biomass production. The models show the potential for a 10 fold increase in microalgae productivity in genetically modified versus unmodified configurations, while also enabling the use of bioreactors of greater optical depth operating at lower dilution rates. Analysis suggests that natural selection of a trait benefiting the individual (high Chl:Cmax, i.e., high antennae size) conflicts with artificial selection of a trait (low Chl:Cmax) of most benefit to production at the population level. The implication is that GM strains rather than strains selected from nature will be most beneficial for commercial algal biofuels production. Further, escaped GM algae populations may, depending on the specific nature of the modification, be quickly out-competed by the natural forms because individually a high Chl:C is beneficial in low light environments. However, it remains possible that changes in biochemical composition associated with genetic modification of photosystem competence, or with other selection processes to enhance commercial gain, may adversely affect the value of such organisms as prey for zooplankton, leading to the unwanted generation of future harmful algae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The photosynthetic performances of microphytobenthos as well as the xanthophylls cycle development were monitored directly in situ on undisturbed intertidal mudflats in the Authie Bay (Northern France) during the two daylight emersion periods of the same day. The effective quantum yield of PSII was measured regularly using the PAM fluorescence technique at the same three locations on the sediment, allowing the estimation of the relative electron transport rate (rETR) and the establishment of two light curves. The photosynthetic responses of microalgae at a given light level differed for one emersion period to the other. The maximum rETR (rETRm) calculated from the afternoon light curve were significantly higher than in the morning. Pigments analyses show evidence of the progressive conversion of diadinoxanthin (DD) to diatoxanthin (DT) with increasing light. We demonstrate for the first time, with in situ measurements, the involvement of the xanthophylls cycle in the photoacclimation process in microphytobenthos at high irradiances. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study which examines the capability of photoacclimation models to measure the production in aquatic environments under variable light conditions. The study uses Rubisco activity to control the carbon (C) sequestration's rate through carbon dioxide catalysis, plasticity to allow optimal performance, and C and N assimilation to denote N uptake's energy cost. It mentions that the models prescribe carboxylation sub-partitioning and optimal protein partitioning between carbon (C) and nitrogren (N) uptake. Moreover, the study reveals that the models are generated by indirect feedbacks to adapt in physiological traits.

Light-acclimation processes are central to allowing photosynthesis in aquatic ecosystems to span from high light conditions, that are 10-fold higher than the light levels required to saturate photosynthesis, to the deep sea with extremely low light levels. In dim light systems, nutrient levels are often high, and cells maximize the absorption of light by increasing the cellular pool of pigments. The upper limits of light absorption are constrained by the package effect, which ultimately restricts the benefit of the light absorption associated with an increase in cellular pigmentation, thus decreasing the cost/benefit ratio relative to the metabolic cost of manufacturing cellular light-harvesting pigments. At extremely low light levels in the deep sea, chloroplasts are sequestered in numerous organisms; however, these species are not obligate autotrophs and supplement a heterotrophic/mixotrophic existence with opportunistic autotrophy. While low light acclimation is based on maximizing light absorption, photosynthetic systems under high light, in addition to decreased light-harvesting cross sections, rely on energy-dissipation processes to avoid light-induced damage to the photosynthetic apparatus and other free radical susceptible cell structures. Dissipation of excess light energy represents the largest sink of the absorbed light in high light environments; however, these processes remain largely unstudied and are rarely quantified. Cells supplement their energy-dissipation processes through increasing the capacity to remove high-light-generated radicals and/or inducing vertical movement. Improved understanding of strategies remains central for the understanding of algal distributions in nature and has broad industrial implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuarine microphytobenthos are frequently exposed to excessively high irradiances. Photoinhibition in microalgae is prevented by various photophysiological responses. We describe here the role of the xanthophyll pigments in photoacclimation. The pigment composition of the microphytobenthos was studied in three European estuaries (Barrow, Ireland; Eden, UK; Tagus, Portugal). Using HPLC-analyses, microscale changes in biomass and pigment composition were monitored over short (hourly) and long (seasonal) time scales. In the Barrow estuary, the biomass of microphytobenthos (measured as chlorophyll a) increased significantly in the top 400-500 µm of the sediment surface within 1 h of emersion; simultaneously, the xanthophyll pool size (diadinoxanthin plus diatoxanthin, dd + dt) almost doubled. A more gradual conversion of dd into dt was observed, with the dt:dd ratio increasing from at the start of emersion to 0.3 after 3 h emersion. Similar trends in the dt:dd ratio were observed in the surface sediments of the Eden and the Tagus estuaries. Higher ratios were recorded in the Tagus estuary, which may be explained by higher incident irradiance. In addition, seasonal studies carried out in the Eden and Tagus estuaries showed that the xanthophyll pool size increased by 10% in the summer months. The pool size was highest in the Tagus estuary. Concurrently, high values for the de-epoxidation state were recorded, with values for dt/(dt + dd) > 0.35 recorded in the summer. At the Eden, the ratio never exceeded 0.3. The de-epoxidation state was higher in winter than in summer, which was ascribed to the low winter temperatures. During a vertical migration study, a negative relationship between chlorophyll a and the de-epoxidation state was observed. It is suggested that this relationship originates from 'micro-migration' within the biofilm. Migration within the euphotic zone may provide an alternative means for cells to escape photodamage. In this paper, we propose that both xanthophyll cycling and 'micro'-migration play an important role in photoacclimation and it appears that these processes operate in parallel to regulate the photosynthetic response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoacclimation involves the modification of components of the light and dark reactions to optimize photosynthesis following changes in available light. All of the energy required for photosynthesis comes from linear electron transport through PSII and PSI and is dependent upon the amount of light harvested by PSII relative to PSI ( a*PSII and a*PSI). The amount of light harvested is determined by the effective absorption cross-sections (σPSII, σPSI) and cellular contents of the PSII and PSI reaction center complexes (RCII, RCI). Here, we examine the effective absorption cross-sections and reaction center contents for calcifying (B11) and noncalcifying (B92) strains of the globally important coccolithophorid Emiliania huxleyi (Lohmann) W. H. Hay et H. Mohler when grown under various photon flux densities (PFDs). The two strains displayed different “strategies” of acclimation. As growth PFD increased, B11 preferentially changed σ and the cellular content of chl a per cell over PSU “size” (the total cellular chl a content associated with the reaction center complexes); strain B92 preferentially changed PSU size over the cellular content of reaction complexes. Neither strategy was specifically consistent with the majority of previous studies from other microalgal species. For both strains, cellular light absorption for PSII and PSI was maintained close to unity across the range of growth PFDs since changes of σPSII and σPSI were reciprocated by those of RCIIs and RCIs per cell. Our results demonstrate a significant adaptive flexibility of E. huxleyi to photoacclimate. Finally, we calculated the amount of chl a associated with either photosystem to consider our interpretations of photoacclimation based on conventional determinations of PSU size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]