Assessment of Microcystis growth rate potential and nutrient status across a trophic gradient in western Lake Erie

► Microcystis in western Lake Erie is most dense between Maumee Bay and offshore. ► Protein content indicates greatest growth rate potential between bay and offshore. ► Total nitrogen: total phosphorus ratio would possibly indicate nitrogen limitation. ► Microcystis was nitrogen-replete and phosphorus-deficient despite low TN:TP ratio.