Bio-optical properties and primary production of Lake Michigan: Insights from 13-years of SeaWiFS imagery

摘要: Abstract Thirteen years of SeaWiFS data (1998–2010) from the early spring isothermal period (March–April) were used to determine trends water attenuation coefficient (K dPAR ), chlorophyll a (Chl Photosynthetic Available Radiation (PAR), and modeled primary production in southern Lake Michigan. Surface PAR values remained unchanged between 1998 2010, but there was an 18–22% drop K during March/April as clarity increased. This transparency increase accompanied by 41–53% decline Chl concentration (μg · L − 1 ) 42–46% (Great Lakes Primary Production Model). These changes most pronounced 2001–2003 which coincided with initial colonization quagga mussels. Statistically significant spatial differences noted concentrations mid-depth (z = 30–90 m deep), offshore ( z  > 90 m deep) waters. region (30–90 m) decreased at higher rate compared waters (> 90 m) likely result filtration activities mussel.