Cyanobacteria are a large group of prokaryotic organisms which generally appear blue-green in color. One recently discovered species of cyanobacteria, UCYN-A, lacks the genes that encode: Components of photosystem II in the light reactions of photosynthesis.

Ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo) in the Calvin Cycle of photosynthesis.

Components of the Calvin Cycle in respiration.

However, UCYN-A contains genes that enable nitrogen fixation, allowing the conversion of nitrogen into a more complex compound, such as nitrate, NO3¯.

Use the information above to answer the following questions.

What color(s) of light is the cyanobacteria likely to absorb?

A researcher investigating UCYN-A suggests that, like other cyanobacteria, it undergoes photosynthesis. Do you agree or disagree with the researcher's statement? Explain your reasoning.

Identify the metabolic process whereby UCYN-A is most likely to produce ATP.

Discuss how nitrogen fixation could be a similar process to carbon fixation.