We studied the effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) supply on Fv/Fm (maximal quantum yield of photosystem II) in the algae Chaetoceros debilis, Dicrateria inornata, Platymonas subcordiformis and Heterosigma akashiwo to determine the sensitivity of Fv/Fm to P-limitation of the four species. Obvious decrease of Fv/Fm value was monitored in periods of P-depletion, the decrease showing different magnitudes among algal species. A more clear decrease of Fv/Fm in Platymonas subcordiformis and Het-erosigma akashiwo was observed, compared with that in Chaetoceros debilis and Dicrateria inornata. After the resupply of P, the index Fv/Fm of the four species all recovered quickly in 24 h. Cell division was maintained and chlorophyll content continued to increase until the end of the experiment in Platymonas subcordiformis and Heterosigma akashiwo, while in Chaetoceros debilis and Dicrateria inornata, the division stopped in the later period when the growth of organisms came into the stationary phase. The most obvious respond of chlorophyll content to P-additions was observed in Het-erosigma akashiwo culture in 24 h. The sensitivity of Fv/Fm to nutrient limitations is different among algal species, and much should be done to improve the application of this index.
