Post-eastern Mediterranean Transient Oxygen Decline in the Deep Waters of the Southeast Mediterranean Sea Supports Weakening of Ventilation Rates

摘要: Long-term trends in oxygen, salinity and nutrients were followed the Southeastern Mediterranean (SEMS) deep water masses from 2002-2020. Results show a net decrease oxygen since 2008 of -0.5±0.1 μmol kg-1 yr-1 bathypelagic depths (1200 – 2000m). Multiannual variability levels superimposed this trend, is likely associated with variations thermohaline fluxes. The 2020 mean concentration 179.5±2.3 comparable to pre- Eastern Transient (EMT) value. post-EMT signature clearly demonstrated both over period 2002-2013, but 2014 it diminished, mainly due mixing Aegean mass overlying old Adriatic mass. This trend reflects switch back pre-EMT regime, characterized by homogeneity column SEMS. long-term decline also accompanied corresponding increase dissolved inorganic nutrients, supporting aging masses. Our results suggest that ventilation SEMS currently occurring at lower, rate, probably as result moderated formation recent time.