A mathematical expression is proposed to describe the relationship between the photosynthetic capacity (Pmax) of natural assemblages of motile benthic diatoms and temperature. Experiments were performed in 2 different seasons to document the response of Pmax to a rapid increase in temperature (3*C h-1). In both cases, there was a progressive increase in Pmax up to an optimum temperature (Topt), beyond which Pmax declined rapidly. Topt did not change from September to December 1995, but the maximum photosynthetic capacity (PMAX, i.e. Pmax at Topt) was twice as high in September as in December.