The influence of environmental conditions on algal stoichiometry (RiS 10656)

The stoichiometry of algae is very plastic and is strongly influenced by environmental conditions. The ratios of C:N:P (carbon:nitrogen:phosphorus) determine the algal food quality and affect the transfer of energy within the food web and the structure of the food web itself. Light conditions and nutrient supply are expected to change in the Arctic as a result of decreasing ice extent and stronger stratification due to global warming. The aim of this project is to study the seasonal variability in algal stoichiometry in both ice algae and phytoplankton and to identify the relative importance of light conditions and nutrient availability for the observed changes. This study is part of the NRC-funded project FAABulous: Future Arctic Algal Blooms - and their role in the context of climate change.