Abstract
Rates of photosynthesis were used to evaluate the response of phytoplankton when passed through the cooling system of a power generating facility. Photosynthesis was measured as the uptake of carbon. A factorial design permitted evaluation of heat input, total effect of passage, and degree of recovery. Six experiments measured response at a fixed time of day and at various times in a daily cycle.
An increase in temperature of approximately 8.0 C stimulated photosynthesis when natural water tempratures were 16 C or cooler and inhibited photosynthesis when natural water temperatures were 20 C or warmer. Passage through the cooling system resulted in further inhibition when the water was warm and nullified thermal stimulation when the water was cool.
No recovery was observed within a four hour period following passage. Photosynthesis in cooled effluent water was either unaffected or actually suppressed.
The existence of daily synchrony in the algae was shown by a daily maximum of thermal stimulation at 0900. The rhythm is considered inherent and only amplified by warming.
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Contribution No. 399, Natural Resources Institute, University of Maryland.
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Morgan, R.P., Stross, R.G. Destruction of phytoplankton in the cooling water supply of a steam electric station. Chesapeake Science 10, 165–171 (1969). https://doi.org/10.2307/1350453
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.2307/1350453