Evolution to oligotrophy

Limiting nutrients in primary production: P, N and Fe. 1. Increase the: -surface area to volume ratio, -number and affinity of active membrane transporters, -diversity of available nutrient forms. 2. Decrease the demand: -Streamline genome, -Decrease the DNA G-C content, -Change phospholipids for others non-P containing lipids in the membrane, -Use enzymes with lower metal demands, -Use catabolic pathways with less costly enzymes, -Eliminate costly processes that can be ‘outsourced.