COLUMBIA RIVER EFFLUENT IN THE NORTHEAST PACIFIC OCEAN, 1961, 1962: SELECTED ASPECTS OF PHYTOPLANKTON DISTRIBUTION AND PRODUCTION,
Abstract
The distribution of chlorophyll (a) and phytoplankton productivity off the Washington and Oregon coasts has been observed during 14 cruises from January, 1961 to June, 1962. Suface waters in the area covered by the Columbia River effluent generally contained more phytoplankton and had a higher rate of photosynthesis than ambient waters. The densest and most variable populations were found during summer in coastal upwelling areas and directly off the river mouth. Although there was little seasonal change in standing stock, production was quite variable with minima in winter and summer and a large spring bloom and lesser autumn pulse. The major influence of Columbia River water on phytoplankton production appeared to be in the timing of events in the seasonal cycle. Phytoplankton development was noticeably affected by differences in the depth of the mixed layer and the sharp pycnocline during summer. The seasonal variation of C-14 - chlorophyll (a) uptake ratios was marked. Low values occurred during wnter with a maximum during the spring bloom. 'Dead' or inactive chlorophyll appeared to be negligible at all times, judging from regressions of these relationships. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0431607
Entities
People
- George C. Anderson
Organizations
- University of Washington