A multiple biomarker approach to tracking the fate of an ice algal bloom to the sea floor

摘要: In ice-covered Arctic seas, the ice algal production can be main input of organic matter to ecosystem. Pelagic–benthic coupling is thought particularly tight in those areas. The increase Franklin Bay from January/February April/May 2004 paralleled an benthic oxygen demand. However, sedimentary chlorophyll a, which usually indicator “fresh” inputs sea floor, did not increase. Consequently, it was asked what fate phytodetritus arriving at floor? To answer this question, photosynthetic pigments ice, water column particulate matter, and sediment, as well diatom frustules were studied January May 2004. number cells sediment showed April/May, confirming higher fresh algae sediment. Changes pigment profiles first 10 cm suggested bioturbation due enhanced activities. Finally, decrease ratio a phaeophorbide implied macrobenthic activity. Benthic macrofauna consumed some deposited material mixed within top five response different levels only combination these studies that will allow understanding overall compartment.