Effect of macronutrient enrichment on the size distribution, sorption, and bioconcentration factor of iron by coastal phytoplanktonic diatoms

The influences of macronutrient enrichment on iron absorption, adsorption, and the bioconcentration factor (BCF) of iron by coastal diatoms were examined. In addition, the distribution of different iron size fractions in seawater in relation to two diatom species exposed to nutrient enrichment over an extended period (6 days for Thalassiosira weissflogii, and 4 days for Skeletonema costatum), was investigated. Iron concentrations were measured of seven size fractions: particles (>0.4 μm), colloidal particles (0.4 μm–100, 100–50, 50–30, 30–10, 10–3 kDa), and soluble species (<3 kDa).The absorption, adsorption, uptake, BCF of iron by the diatoms, and the iron species distribution in seawater were affected by the diatom species, as well as the nitrate (N) and phosphate (P) concentration. The addition of P could affect the iron internalization strategy. The content of soluble iron species was positively correlated with the amount of iron absorption by T. weissflogii, but it was not suitable for S. costatum.

► Iron absorption and adsorption by coastal diatoms were distinguished.
► A correct bioconcentration factor of iron was obtained.
► Iron biochemical cycle was affected by diatom species and eutrophication.
► The addition of P could affect the iron internalization strategy.