The goal of the research is to examine the linkages between the water column and the sediments to understand how interannual fluctuations in the magnitude and pattern of pelagic production result in variability in production of benthic (bottom-dwelling) organisms. The principal investigators hypothesize that the timing of the spring phytoplankton bloom helps determine the amount of organic matter reaching the bottom, as follows: (1) during early blooms, colder water temperatures slow bloom consumption by grazers in the water column; (2) early blooms limit the growth of grazers, which may themselves control the magnitude and duration of the bloom; and (3) organic matter from early blooms that reaches the bottom will degrade less rapidly because of colder temperatures. Before considering, in depth, field studies of their hypothesis, the prinicipal investigators will develop a mathematical simulation model of the spring bloom based on data obtained from the literature and their best estimate of unknown parameters. This simulation model will serve to clarify the mode of action of the spring bloom and indicate whether an exceptionally early or late bloom could have a significant effect on benthic production.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Ocean Sciences (OCE)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
8800532
Program Officer
Emma R. Dieter
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1988-04-15
Budget End
1989-09-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
$52,974
Indirect Cost
Name
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
East Boothbay
State
ME
Country
United States
Zip Code
04544