A study of the stationary and the anomalous in the ocean surface chlorophyll distribution by satellite data

Abstract

Variability of chlorophyll concentration in the ocean is one of the most important components of the primary production process on the planet. To preserve the biosphere and to make appropriate use of it, it is imperative to have a deep insight into the long-term dynamics of the primary production on the planet. To investigate the dynamics of chlorophyll concentration based on satellite data, the Institute of Biophysics (Russian Academy of Sciences, Siberian Branch) has developed a geoinformation system. It was used to detect the areas in the global ocean that are quasistationary in relation to seasonal dynamics of chlorophyll concentration. Areas such as these, found in the Indian Ocean, are described in this work. These areas form the basis for the analysis of long-term dynamics of chlorophyll concentration. In these quasistationary zones systematic monitoring of phytopigment concentration is conducted by space-borne and marine craft. The work presents long-term satellite-based data on the space distribution of anomalous deviations of chlorophyll concentration in the ocean. An anomaly criterion is proposed and maps of Pacific Ocean areas with a high probability of anomalies are presented.

Acknowledgments

The research described in this publication was supported by grants REC-002 (US-CRDF), INTAS-97-OPEN-519 and RFBR No. 99-05-64338.

Notes

An updated version of a paper originally presented at Oceans from Space ‘Venice 2000’ Symposium, Venice, Italy, 9–13 October 2000.