A kinetic approach to the effect of temperature on algal growth1

Abstract

A simple model incorporates the combined effects of temperature and nutrient limitation on the growth rate of algae. The temperature function is described by the Arrhenius equation and the nutrient relationship with the Monod model. The Arrhenius equation is inserted into the Monod model for the maximum growth rate µ ̂, so that the growth rate is described by the product of temperature and nutrient expressions. The utility of the Arrhenius equation in describing the effect of temperature on µ ̂ for phytoplankton is tested with data from the literature on continuous culture experiments with freshwater and marine algae; the Arrhenius model describes the relationship between µ ̂ and temperature extremely well. Several restrictions to widespread use of the model limit its application to laboratory studies, but its general concepts may apply to natural water situations.