Objective
Objective: To identify, quantify and model the principal processes within the abyssal benthic boundary layer which affect the permanent sedimentary record of the incoming chemical flux.
Approach: An intensive multi-disciplinary (geochemical, biochemical, physical and biological) study of a highly seasonal abyssal locality in the NE Atlantic over one complete annual cycle.
The aims will be to:
1. Quantify and characterise the incoming vertical flux of organic and inorgani matter and its resuspension in the near-bottom layers (by sediment traps, transmissometers and midwater cameras).
2. Measure the rate of its incorporation into the sediment column and the fluxes across the sediment-water interface (by in situ landers, sediment column chemical analysis and sediment profile imaging).
3. Study the interaction between the incoming signal and the benthic biota, including bioturbation (by conventional sampling and analysis and in situ manipulation/experimentation).
4. Incorporate the resulting data into predictive models.
European dimension: Logistically, technically and intellectually, this programme could not be achieved by any single European nation alone. The results will be of value to all nations, both in relation to palaeoceanographic interpretation of the sediment record and to the possible use of the deep-sea floor as a repository for waste or as a source of raw materials.
Fields of science
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
CSC - Cost-sharing contractsCoordinator
SO14 3ZH SOUTHAMPTON
United Kingdom
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Participants (18)
27515 Bremerhaven
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29285 Brest
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24148 Kiel
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91198 Gif-sur-Yvette
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412 96 GOETEBORG
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29280 Plouzane
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2140 BORGERHOUT ANTWERPEN
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75005 Paris
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1790 AB DEN BURG
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BT9 7AF Belfast
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PA37 1QA DUNBEG OBAN ARGYLL
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L69 3BX LIVERPOOL
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22765 HAMBURG
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PLYMOUTH
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9000 Gent
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90 Galway
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26110 PATRAS
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60131 Ancona
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