Diel variations of N2 and C fixation rates, as well as subsequent release of total dissolved N (TDN) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were determined for Trichodemsium erythreum and Nodularia spumigena. A circadian rhythm of N2 and C fixation, as well as a periodicity in the calculated release of dissolved compounds, was observed. From the amounts of N and inorganic C fixed by T. erythreum during the light period of the experiment, 71 and 50% were released as TDN and DOC, respectively; for N. spumigena we found a release of 89 and 53%, respectively, during the light period. Additionally, 2 controlling factors (light and nutrient concentrations) for the release of TDN and DOC were studied. The data suggest that rapid shifts towards higher light intensity lead to a pronounced exudation of TDN and DOC. On a short-term basis (first 30 min after exposure), the exudation of NH 4 + and DON consumed up to 52% of electrons harvested by the cells in the same time interval. Thus TDN release serves as a potential electron sink and protects cells from photodestruction. On the other hand, there was no clear effect of phosphorus concentration on the release of TDN and DOC. Our results indicate that uptake and subsequent exudation of TDN and DOC might be induced by abiotic parameters, besides being regulated endogenously by multiple feedback loops.