Principles of Biochemistry, Volume 2 - A. Lehninger 1985

Bioenergetics and Metabolism
Photosynthesis
Photosynthetic organisms are exceptionally diverse

Photosynthesis is characteristic not only of the familiar green plants, but also of lower eukaryotic forms, such as Algae, euglenids, dinoflagellates, and diatoms (Fig. 23-2), which are invisible to the naked eye. Certain prokaryotes also possess The ability to photosynthesize. Photosynthetic prokaryotes include cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), green sulfur Bacteria inhabiting mountain lakes, and purple sulfur bacteria, which are common residents of sulfur springs. Of all photosynthetic organisms, cyanobacteria, which live in both fresh and salt waters, arguably possess the most diverse capabilities. They must be counted among the most independent organisms in our biosphere, as they are also capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen (Section 22.22). No less than half of all photosynthesis on Earth takes place in seas, lakes, and rivers, carried out by a multitude of diverse microorganisms that make up phytoplankton.



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