Result description

The role of Mixed Layer Depth (MLD) variations in shaping the phytoplankton phenology was explored in the Mediterranean Sea, a basin displaying contrasting phenological regimes. A database of MLD estimations was merged with ocean color chlorophyll concentrations to generate concomitant annual MLD and color chlorophyll concentration cycles. Several indices such as annual maximum of MLD and satellite surface chlorophyll-a concentrations were calculated to quantitatively analyze these cycles. It was found that two dominant phenological regimes coexist in the Mediterranean Sea. The first is marked by a typical spring bloom, as in temperate regions. The second displays a low seasonality and an absence of an intense satellite surface chlorophyll-a concentrations peak as in subtropical areas.

Result type

* exploitable scientific result

Link to result

References

Lavigne et al (2013) Enhancing the comprehension of mixed layer depth control on the Mediterranean phytoplankton phenology, J. Geophys. Res., 118, 3416-3430, doi:10.1002/jgrc.20251. Link: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jgrc.20251/abstract