Ekmax: Maximum photoadaptation parameter

Rate of Photosynthesis versus Solar Irradiance

Ekmax is the maximum photoadaptation parameter. Ekmax reflects the amount of photosynthesis a plant can undergo at a certain light level. Phytoplankton are light limited if there is not enough light available for them to grow at their maximum rate. Lower Ekmax values mean that phytoplankton approach their maximum levels of photosynthesis at lower light levels.