Changes in phytoplankton concentration now drive increased Arctic Ocean primary production

• DOI: 10.1126/science.aay8380
• Publication Date: 2020-07-09T23:10:02Z
• Authors: K. M. Lewis; G. L. van Dijken; K. R. Arrigo
• Keywords: Primary productivity; Primary producers

Food for thought Phytoplankton abundances in the Arctic Ocean have been increasing over recent decades as region has warmed and sea ice disappeared. The presumptive causes of this increase were expanding open water area a longer growing season—at least until now. Lewis et al. show that although these factors may driven productivity trends before, past decade, phytoplankton primary production rose by more than half because increased concentrations (see Perspective Babin). This finding means there an influx new nutrients into region, suggesting could become productive export additional carbon future. Science , issue p. 198 ; see also 137