Phytoplankton as Particles - A New Approach to Modeling Algal Blooms
Abstract
The authors investigate the hypothesis that phytoplankton blooms can be modeled by treating phytoplankton as discrete particles. A particle-tracking model is inserted into the CE-QUAL-ICM eutrophication model. Phytoplankton are quantified as carbonaceous biomass attached to the particles. Kinetics are adapted from CE-QUAL-ICM. The new model is operated along with existing hydrodynamic and watershed models of the Potomac River estuary. Initial application is to the winter-spring 1994 period. The new model is compared to observations and to a conventional model of the spring diatom bloom. The particle-based model successfully computes a subsurface chlorophyll maximum. The model characteristically displays heterogeneous spatial distribution of chlorophyll with high-amplitude oscillations at the semi-diurnal period. The characteristics and applicability of the particle approach are now established. The model requires optimization of parameter values to improve representation of the observed bloom in the Potomac.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA583082
Entities
People
- Carl F. Cerco
- Mark R. Noel
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center