| dc.description.abstract | Fluctuations in solar radiation are one of the key factors affecting productivity and survival
in habitat forming coastal macroalgae, in this regard, photoacclimation has a direct impact on the
vulnerability and the capacity of seaweed to withstand, for instance, radiation excess. Here, we study
ecophysiological responses through photosynthetic activity measurements under time-dependent
(one year) fluctuations in solar radiation in the brown macroalga L. spicata. The responses presented
seasonal patterns, with an increase in photosynthetic capacity during summer, expressed in
greater maximal electron transport rate (ETRmax) and diminished thermal dissipation (NPQmax).
Moreover, we studied photoprotective compounds (phenolic compounds) and total antioxidant
capacity, which demonstrated an increase during periods of high solar radiation. In addition, content
of photosynthetic pigment (Chla, Chlc and Carotenoids) increased under greater solar irradiance.
The L. spicata can accumulate as reservoir photoprotective and antioxidant substances to withstand
periods of high solar irradiance. All ecophysiological and biochemical responses in L. spicata indicate
high photoacclimation and low vulnerability in the species, especially during with greater levels of
solar irradiance. | |
