Which mechanism increases phytoplankton biomass when nitrogen availability is low?

💡 Explanation

Diazotrophy allows phytoplankton to fix atmospheric nitrogen, increasing biomass, because nitrogen fixation converts N2 gas to usable forms of nitrogen where other nutrient forms are limiting; therefore phytoplankton can thrive, rather than experiencing inhibited growth.

• Within root nodules, which mechanism optimizes rhizobia-facilitated nutrient uptake of legumes?
• Which outcome occurs when salmon returning inland lack imprinted stream odors?
• Which performance change results when avian wing feathers become contaminated with oil?
• Which consequence results when a legume's nitrogen fixation nodules face oxygen deprivation?
• In insects, which effect suppresses wing development when juvenile hormone prevents pupation?
• Which adaptation allows marine mammals to dive for extended periods without surfacing?