Primary Production of Plankton in the Volga Reservoirs

The data on the rate of photosynthesis and integrated primary production of phytoplankton in the Volga reservoirs in the 20th century are presented. The seasonal dynamics and distribution of primary production in the water area of particular reservoirs and the entire cascade are considered. The formation of primary production in littoral shallow waters is discussed. The efficiency of solar energy utilization during the photosynthesis of Volga plankton and the contribution of primary production to the total pool of organic matter are assessed.