Seasonal and inter-annual variability of plankton chlorophyll and primary production in the Mediterranean Sea: a modelling approach

• DOI: 10.5194/bg-9-217-2012
• Publication Date: 2012-01-11T10:37:44Z
• Authors: P. Lazzari; C. Solidoro; V. Ibello; S. Salon; A. Teruzzi; K. Béranger; S. Colella; A. Crise
• Keywords: Biogeochemical Cycle; Deep chlorophyll maximum

Abstract. This study presents a model of chlorophyll and primary production in the pelagic Mediterranean Sea. A 3-D-biogeochemical (OPATM-BFM) was adopted to explore specific system characteristics quantify dynamics key biogeochemical variables over 6 yr period, from 1999 2004. We show that, on basin scale, Sea is characterised by high degree spatial temporal variability terms concentrations. On important horizontal vertical gradients have been observed. According simulations developed correctly simulated climatological features deep maxima west-east gradients, as well seasonal main offshore regions that were studied. The integrated net highlights north-south differ surface illustrates importance resolving variations calculate basin-wide budgets their variability. model, western Mediterranean, particular Alboran Sea, can be considered mesotrophic, whereas eastern oligotrophic. During summer stratified notable differences between corresponding vertically rates identified, suggesting care must taken when inferring productivity such systems satellite observations alone. Finally, designed role external fluxes light penetration performed. subsequent results effects atmospheric terrestrial nutrient loads total account for less than 5 % its annual value, an increase 30 extinction factor impacts approximately 10 %.