Flow cytometry was used to quantify the abundance of mannose-linked glycoconjugates on microalgae precultured using low- or high-nitrate media. Nitrogen-deficient microalgae were richer in cell-surface mannose than nitrogen-sufficient. Findings are discussed in view of recent research which reveals mannose-specific 'feeding receptors' assist prey biorecognition by phagotrophic protozoa that ingest microalgae.
microalgae; biorecognition; phagotrophic protozoa; mannose
