Cyanobacteria participate in multilayered microbial mats with sulfur phototrophs. These other phototrophs absorb light if they lie below the cyanobacteria by
A) growing anaerobically.
B) producing phycocyanin.
C) absorbing light at shorter wavelengths than cyanobacteria.
D) absorbing light at longer wavelengths than cyanobacteria.
E) absorbing UV irradiation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sulfur phototrophs that lie below cyanobacteria participate in multilayered microbial mats by absorbing light at longer wavelengths than cyanobacteria. This allows them to use the remaining light energy that passes through the upper layer of cyanobacteria.

Cyanobacteria Participate in Multilayered Microbial Mats with Sulfur Phototrophs