Physical controls on heterogeneous mesopelagic biogeochemistry

Area of Science:

• Oceanography
• Marine Biogeochemistry
• Physical Oceanography

Background:

• The ocean's surface and interior are interconnected by three-dimensional physical processes operating on subseasonal timescales.
• Eddy dynamics significantly influence biogeochemical and biological variability in the upper mesopelagic ocean, as shown by models and observations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of physical processes in shaping subsurface biogeochemical and biological variability.
• To emphasize the implications of subsurface tracer variance for ocean ventilation, biogeochemical function, and microbial communities.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing numerical models and observational data to study ocean dynamics.
• Applying water mass frameworks to describe subsurface patchiness and tracer transport.

Main Results:

• Eddy dynamics play a crucial role in the upper mesopelagic ocean's biogeochemistry and biology.
• Subsurface tracer variance impacts ocean ventilation timescales and microbial ecosystems.

Conclusions:

• Water mass frameworks accounting for dynamic transport processes are essential for understanding subsurface patchiness.
• Future investments in co-located physical and biological measurements are vital for advancing mesopelagic biogeochemistry research.