Research project

Progetto Autofinanziato "Long Term Export Fluxes" (P. GIORDANO) (DTA.AD004.324)

Thematic area

Earth system science and environmental technologies

Project area

Osservazione della Terra (DTA.AD004)

Structure responsible for the research project

Istituto di Scienze Polari (ISP)

Other structures collaborating in the research project

Project manager

PATRIZIA GIORDANO
Phone number: 051
Email: patrizia.giordano@cnr.it

Abstract

The export of particulate organic carbon (POC) from the sea surface is an essential part of the biological pump. Export fluxes are the result of what is produced in surface water and how much is consumed during particle sinking in the water column, and buried in bottom sediments. Deep ocean and sediment burial retain CO2 for relatively long period (decadal to millennial).
Here, we will compare reference and new data of lateral and vertical particle fluxes that will be obtained on a decadal scale time series (2020-2030) by automatic sediment traps tethered to moorings in coastal and deep sea both at our latitudes and in polar areas.
Which are the main factors controlling interannual flux variabilities or long-term trends? New data will be used to evaluate the interannual variability and long-term trend over time. Will the increased/reduced export fluxes depend on changes in the biological production, or variability in OM consumption, or on lateral transfer of biogenic particles outside the study areas, or what else? Are changes occurring as rapid shifts, constant rates or periodic fluctuations?
Time series of particle fluxes, satellite observations of chlorophyll biomass, sea ice ex

Goals

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Start date of activity

01/06/2020

Keywords

POC

Last update: 01/07/2025