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  • 7 - Light as a Major Driver of Algal Physiology and Evolution

  • from Part II - Physiology of Photosynthetic Autotrophs in Present-Day Environments
  • Edited by Mario Giordano, Università degli Studi di Ancona, Italy, John Beardall, Monash University, Victoria, John A. Raven, University of Dundee, Stephen C. Maberly, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster
  • Book:
    Evolutionary Physiology of Algae and Aquatic Plants
    Published online:
    24 October 2024
    Print publication:
    07 November 2024, pp 115-135

  • Summary

    Solar radiation is the major factor shaping the environment where algae, cyanobacteria and aquatic macrophytes can thrive. Light is the energy source for photosynthesis and growth and can control algal net primary production. Changes in light intensity occur on orders of magnitude within timescales from milliseconds to hours, seasons and even eons. In water, light is exponentially attenuated with depth, with attenuation being wavelength dependent. As a result, the intensity and spectrum of available light can be very dynamic and unpredictable. To cope with such a challenging environment, an array of sensing and feedback-loop mechanisms has evolved in aquatic phototrophs. The structural and functional plasticity of light harvesting and photoprotection mechanisms is also extremely high. This has allowed algae to occur, thrive and evolve in all niches where light is available.