Ecological responses to mesoscale physical dynamics are not limited to a mesoscale spatial domain. Consequently, an understanding of the linkage to ecological dynamics over larger spatial scales and longer time scales is critically dependent upon a characterization of the mesoscale physical/biological interactions. The investigators propose to evaluate the link between mesoscale physical dynamics, as driven by local and remote forcing, and the variability in phytoplankton and zooplankton abundance and spatial pattern observed across the GLOBEC Northeast Pacific region. The two primary objectives are to (1) determine the contribution of variability in mesoscale physical forcing and ocean dynamics to the variability in ecosystem dynamics, as expressed by phytoplankton and zooplankton abundance, spatial pattern, size distribution and indices of production and (2) extend this mesoscale understanding across a larger spatial domain and across longer time scales through the use of coupled models and other GLOBEC datasets. The investigators will examine the consequences of variability in forcing on the ecosystem and develop indices of mesoscale variability in both the physical and biological properties of the northern California Current. The indices will be related to changes in energy input into the system, e.g. interannual changes in wind forcing. Within the GLOBEC synthesis effort, this work will contribute to a causal understanding of the link between local physical and biological mesoscale activity to large spatial-scale, long time-scale regional forcing, and will establish a basis for developing a predictive capability for estimating mesoscale ecosystem response to forcing. The results will be disseminated through multi-authored papers, linked websites, and through LiveAccess servers. The investigators also propose to collaborate with the Oregon Office of Adult Education.
