Phytoplankton pigment in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada, as determined by the Coastal Zone Color Scanner—Part II: multivariate analysis

摘要: Abstract We report here on a statistical study of physical-biological interactions in the Gulf St. Lawrence that uses for first time ocean color images (phytoplankton pigments) and data runoff wind. Based Monte Carlo test significance, we extracted four orthogonal (independent) spatial patterns (Empirical Orthogonal Functions, EOF) pigments explain 64% total variance. also computed EOFs from wind 90% multiple correlations among these anomalies, derived two modes variability. The mode is dual regulation production by Lower Estuary (LSLE) western alongshore stress northeastern Gulf. second incorporates mesoscale circulation features (eddies, meanders) respond to low frequency fluctuations (in lower estuary) or (Gaspe Current, northwestern Gulf, northern Esquiman Channel). third reflects impact seasonal regimes pigment levels LSLE, Gaspe southwestern fourth dominated one coccolithophore bloom event August 1979. analysis gives some insight into sources interannual variability distributions. spring does not dominate cycle; only EOF (5% variation) displays peak stronger than fall peak. cycle part linked runoff, driven mostly year differences freshet. However, summer play role. This suggests late blooms physical factors regulate them deserve more study.