A simple model incorporates the combined effects of temperature and nutrient limitation on the growth rate of algae. The temperature function is described by the Arrhenius equation and the nutrient relationship with the Monod model. The Arrhcnius equation is inserted into the Monod model for the maximum growth rate fi, so that the growth rate is described by the product of temperature and nutrient cxprcssions. The utility of the Arrhenius equation in describing the effect of temperature on fi for phytoplankton is tested with data from the literature on continuous culture experiments with freshwater and marinc algae; the Arrhcnius model describes the relationship between fi and temperature extremely well. Several restrictions to widespread use of the model limit its application to laboratory studies, but its general concepts may apply to natural water situations.