Responses of the growth and biochemical composition of Prorocentrum donghaiense to different nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations

► Cellular protein content was closely related to the availability of N. ► Nutrient limitation can induce the accumulation of carbohydrates in the cell. ► Pigments ratios changed with different growth phases and nutrient status. ► Specific ratios could indicate the nutritional status of phytoplankton.