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The influence of phytoplankton size fractions on the carbon export ratio in the surface ocean

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  • Li, Zuchuan
  • Lin, Yajuan
  • Cassar, Nicolas

Abstract

The fraction of primary production exported out of the surface ocean, also known as the carbon export ratio, is believed to be a function of phytoplankton size fractions. However, this relationship is often elusive in observations. Here, we explore this relationship by developing a metabolism-based mechanistic model of the carbon export ratio at the base of the mixed layer (efml). Our efml model is a function of phytoplankton size fractions, temperature, and light and nutrient availability in the mixed layer. Our model delineates a lower bound on efml as a linear function of biomass ratios between phytoplankton size groups, supporting observational data from three cruises in the Southern Ocean. Finally, we develop a remotely-sensed estimate of efml incorporating satellite estimates of phytoplankton size fractions. Models like the one presented in this study will benefit from the improved characterization of plankton communities with the upcoming hyperspectral satellite imaging. With the projected shifts in plankton ecosystem structure associated with climate change, projections of air-sea carbon fluxes will require an improved representation of the impact of phytoplankton size fractions on the carbon export ratio.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Zuchuan & Lin, Yajuan & Cassar, Nicolas, 2024. "The influence of phytoplankton size fractions on the carbon export ratio in the surface ocean," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 495(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:495:y:2024:i:c:s0304380024001868
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2024.110798
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