Grazing Impacts of Diverse Zooplankton Taxa on Thin Layers

摘要: Abstract : The US Navy needs to know how distributions and abundances of light-scattering sound-scattering organisms in the ocean vary space time, particularly vertical dimension. Recent field observations have shown that many biological properties may substantially over small (e.g. centimeter) scales, commonly referred as "thin layers" Cowles et al. 1998, 1999, Hanson & Donaghay Holliday Dekshenieks 2001, Alldredge 2002, Rines 2002). Our previous ONR-funded research has allowed us begin understand zooplankton interact with thin layers they can take advantage biomass prey concentrated these small-scale features (Avent Bollens 2000, Bochdansky 2004, Clay Ignoffo al., 2005). However, there is almost no information regarding influence characteristics persistence layers. In this project we proposed address issue, two main long-term goals: First, determine what extent graze export carbon from layers; second, whether physical optical acoustical), chemical, their presence. These goals require determination rate processes such feeding activity excretion, which are very difficult assess field. Thus our focused on detailed experimental studies behaviors contribute recycling expert material around