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Persistent URL http://purl.org/net/epubs/work/39849
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Record Id 39849
Title Three-dimensional ecosystem modelling for shelf seas
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Abstract A prescription of the 3-dimensional hydrodynamic environment on the appropriate time and space scales, coupled to pelagic and benthic ecosystems, is required to enhance our understanding of the interaction between physical and biological processes in shelf seas. The Proudman Oceanographic Laboratory Coastal Ocean Modelling System (POLCOMS) is applied, in conjunction with the European Regional Seas Ecosystem Model (ERSEM) at eddy resolving (~1.8km) scales to the stratified region of the western Irish Sea to investigate the effects of horizontal and vertical transport processes on the ecosystem. We find, following the spring bloom, the surface currents can transport nutrient and biota rich water into the otherwise depleted surface stratified region, fuelling intermittent production throughout the summer. Only limited and anecdotal observational evidence exists to support the model results, which points to a need for high spatial and temporal resolution observations to investigate these processes in conjunction with further model studies. Nevertheless, we utilise the available data and a 1-D representation of the Fasham/Anderson/Kelly-Gerreyn (FAK) model to investigate the phytoplankton structure and the primary production in this area, and demonstrate the controlling influence that the physical environment exerts on the biological response.
Organisation CCLRC , CSE , CSE-HEC
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Language English (EN)
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Presentation Presented at UK GLOBEC Meeting, 26 February 2004, Royal Society, London, UK. 2004