Chlorophyll–total phosphorus relationships emerge from multiscale interactions from algae to catchments

Chlorophyll and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations are key indicators of lake water quality the relationship between them is a common tool for assessing trophic status. Despite application chlorophyll–TP in management settings, there still an absence mechanistic understanding underlying its shape. We leveraged process-based model that focuses primarily on biogeochemical physiological mechanisms to develop framework reconciles interactions multiscale drivers relationship, such as hydrologic P loads, shape, algal physiology. found combinations shape load induce broad shifts limitation status underly relationship. Furthermore, we highlight importance traits controlling limitation. Our ties landscape ecosystem features biological provides synthetic