Phosphorus‐dependent growth kinetics of 11 species of freshwater algae

Mixed‐species batch cultures were used to measure kinetics of phosphorus‐dependent growth for 11 species of freshwater algae. Results were fitted to the Monod model, and significant interspecific differences were found. Indices of competitive ability calculated from the Monod parameters suggest that Synedra radians, Synedra rumpens, Nitzschia acicularis, and Chlamydomonas sp. are good competitors for P, and that Nitzschia palea and several nonsiliceous algae are poor competitors for P. These indices of competitive ability are largely consistent with competitive outcomes in a companion experiment with these species and with other studies. No relation was found between maximal growth rate and the effect that fluctuations in P supply had on a species’ performance in the competition experiment. Growth parameters and competitive indices were not significantly correlated with cell volume, surface area, or surface: volume ratio.