OVSN_BATS

OVSN_BATS

The biological carbon pump plays a crucial role in marine carbon sequestration, yet current estimates of carbon flux come with high uncertainties due to the heterogeneous nature of sinking particles. Our project addresses this challenge by linking large-scale ocean observations with experimental analyses on the microscopic scale and numerical modeling. Underwater particle images will be collected across a transect from Bermuda to the New England slope through an autonomous vehicle. Sampling efforts and sediment trap deployments on both ends of the transect will allow for detailed particle characterizations, including respiration rates, sinking velocities, carbon contents and genetic analyses. A numerical model will combine ocean current data with particle abundances and characteristics, aiming to improve mechanistic understanding and parametrization of the biological carbon pump. We request adding a day to a BATS cruise for collaborative sampling efforts on the Bermuda end.