This proposal is part of an integrated scientific investigation to study the properties of the Arctic ocean, atmosphere, and sea-ice on a transect between Murmansk, USSR and Nome, Alaska. There are few published measurements of biomass or production from most shelf and basin regions of the Arctic Ocean. This project is one of four that will evaluate biological processes in the Arctic Ocean during the Trans-Arctic cruise of the SOVETSKIY SOYUZ. It will investigate role of bacteria in the cycling of organic matter in the Arctic Ocean. The program will study the spatial variation in bacterial biomass and production and their significance in organic matter cycling and the sinking flux out of the region of light penetration and into deeper depths. Concentrations of various organic fractions in sea water will also be accomplished.
