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Abstract
Fumigation with air containing 0.075 ppm formaldehyde for one hour reduces the rate of photosynthesis and respiration of Euglena cells. “Fasting” of the cells for 4.5 hours in bicarbonate buffer prior to fumigation with 0.075 ppm formaldehyde causes a slight increase of their rate of photosynthesis and respiration. Exposure of the Euglena cells to air containing 0.100 ppm propionaldehyde for one hour diminishes their rate of photosynthesis and respiration. Almost complete protection from the toxic effects of 0.100 ppm propionaldehyde is offered by fasting the cells for 4.5 hours in bicarbonate buffer. By comparing the effect of formaldehyde on photosynthesis and respiration of Eugtena gracilis with that of propionaldehyde, we find that propionaldehyde is the more toxic one, and that fasting of the cells reduces their sensitivity to the effects of both aldehydes.