An Atlas of Secchi Disc Transparency Measurements and Forel-Ule Color Codes for the Oceans of the World
Abstract
An investigation was made of the global distribution of Secchi disc water transparency measurements and Forel-Ule water color codes which were on file at the National Oceanographic Data Center prior to June 1969. Charts were constructed for 17 major areas of the world's oceans to show the horizontal distributions of transparency and/or color. Data generally were presented as mean distributions. Charts were prepared showing the overall mean transparency and Forel-Ule color distribution for all of the data considered, except for the Sea of Japan, for which monthly mean charts were constructed. Plots of transparency measurements against the corresponding color codes were also drawn for five selected areas. Transparency showed marked variations in each area considered. Generally it is greater in the central basins and decreases in coastal regions. Reduced transparency readings and discolored waters were noted for areas affected by river runoff, for areas of high organic productivity, and where standing plankton crops were found. Seasonal variations in transparency and color were not noted except for the Sea of Japan and the Indian Ocean (winter and summer).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0718333
Entities
People
- Margaret A. Frederick
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School