Phytoplankton driven distribution of dissolved and particulate lipids in a semi-enclosed temperate sea (Mediterranean): Spring to summer situation

► Phytoplankton abundance and taxa and organic matter were investigated from spring to summer. ► Oligotrophication led to increasing number of phytoplankton taxa. ► The main sources of lipids were marine phytoplankton and bacteria. ► Lipids, including glycolipids, accumulation and synthesis were enhanced with nutrient depletion. ► Spring characterized new organic matter production while reworking processes dominated summer.