How Photosynthesis Works in Aquatic Plants

Basic Principle

Photosynthesis in aquatic plants occurs through the conversion of light energy into chemical energy. This process requires three primary components: light, water, and carbon dioxide. Unlike terrestrial plants, aquatic plants adapt to submerged or floating environments.

Key Steps

• Light Absorption: Chlorophyll in chloroplasts captures sunlight (blue and red wavelengths most effective)
• Water Uptake: Absorbed through roots or directly from water (e.g., Elodea species)
• Carbon dioxide utilization: Dissolved CO₂ enters through leaf stomata or air pockets
• ATP Synthesis: Energy carriers produced in thylakoid membranes
• Glucose Formation: Carbohydrates stored as starch or used for growth

Environmental Influences

Ecological Applications

• Bioremediation of polluted waters
• Food production (e.g., Arthrospira)
• Carbon sequestration in freshwater systems

References

• Schmid et al., "Aquatic photosynthesis mechanisms" (2020)
• Wang & Chen, "Freshwater plant physiology" (2019)