MEPS 511:33-39 (2014)  -  DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/meps10903

ABSTRACT: We present a new model for the kinetics of nutrient uptake by phytoplankton, which we derive by combining existing models: (1) a size-based modeling framework that accounts for the effects of extra-cellular diffusive limitation, and (2) a model of optimal resource allocation that maximizes uptake rate subject to a physiological trade-off. We show that the new model, unlike either of its pre-existing components, is able to reproduce the observed range of variation in the half-saturation constant for nitrate uptake as a function of both ambient nitrate concentration and cell size. Our results illustrate that the combination of mechanistic trait-based modeling and physiological trade-offs can greatly advance our understanding of plankton ecology.

KEY WORDS: Phytoplankton · Nutrient uptake kinetics · Size · Trait · Model · Trade-off

Full text in pdf format

Cite this article as: Smith SL, Merico A, Hohn S, Brandt G (2014) Sizing-up nutrient uptake kinetics: combining a physiological trade-off with size-scaling of phytoplankton traits. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 511:33-39. https://doi.org/10.3354/meps10903 Export citation Share:    Facebook - - linkedIn