---
url: https://www.eurocovers.eu/glossary/photosynthesis-inhibition
term: Photosynthesis inhibition
definition: Suppression of algae photosynthesis by blocking light from reaching the water column — the mechanism behind cover-based algae prevention.
updated: 2026-05-25
---

# Photosynthesis inhibition

Suppression of algae photosynthesis by blocking light from reaching the water column — the mechanism behind cover-based algae prevention.

**Photosynthesis inhibition** is the suppression of algae growth by blocking the light required for
chlorophyll-driven photosynthesis. A high-coverage floating cover blocks the incident sunlight that
otherwise reaches the water column, eliminating the energy source for bloom formation. AWTT publishes
99% sunlight blocking for the Hexprotect® AQUA hexagonal element. Photosynthesis inhibition is the
foundational mechanism by which floating covers suppress algae — distinct from chemical algaecide
approaches (which kill existing algae) or aeration (which disrupts bloom-favouring conditions).

The high-coverage performance attaches to the AWTT-patented hexagonal cover, which AWTT publishes
at 99% effective surface coverage (see [/heritage](/heritage) for the engineering basis).