Effects of photosynthetic inhibitors and light-dark regimes on the replication of cyanophage SM-2

The effects of photosynthetic inhibitors and light-dark regimes on the replication of cyanophage SM-2 in its host cyanobacteria (Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 563 and Microcystis aeruginosa NRC-1, Synechococcus NRC-1 UTEX 1937) have been investigated. Photoassimilation of CO₂ by infected cells was enhanced and remained elevated until late in the infection cycle. Photosynthetic inhibitors and the removal of light suppressed viral replication. SM-2, like other cyanophage of unicellular cyanobacteria, is highly dependent on host photosynthetic metabolism for the energy required in replication.Abbreviations DCMU 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea - CCCP carbonyl-cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone - MMH Modified Modified Hughes Medium