Satellite assessment of particulate matter and phytoplankton variations in the Santa Barbara Channel and its surrounding waters: Role of surface waves

摘要: Satellite observations of chlorophyll in coastal waters are often described terms changes productivity response to regional upwelling processes while optical backscattering coefficients more linked episodic inputs suspended sediments from storm runoff. Here we show that the surface gravity wave resuspension has a larger role controlling backscatter than previously considered. Almost 18 years SeaWiFS, MODIS, MERIS, and VIIRS satellite imagery Santa Barbara Channel, California its surrounding spectrally merged with Garver-Siegel-Maritorena bio-optical model were used assess controls on particle distributions. Analysis revealed blooms warmer portions domain occur phase SST minima, usually early spring, cooler regions lag minima simultaneously strongest equatorward winds every year, summer. Tight coupling between variables was seen offshore areas, as expected for productive waters. However, values near coast primarily modulated by waves. This relationship holds throughout all seasons is stronger within 100 m isobath, but extends tens kilometers offshore. forcing waves likely feature ubiquitous oceans characterized fine sediments. The implication determining loads far beyond surf zone large consequences interpretation ocean color signals potentially redefines extent littoral zone.