NOAA-GMT-2

We propose to deploy a moored dual-sediment trap within the northern Gulf of Mexico (nGOM; 28.240117°N, 89.127993°W, ~1,125‐m water depth) to collect and quantify particulate fluxes at the base of the euphotic zone and collect and examine eDNA associated with sinking particulates. The proposed deployment site is ideal to study variability in the BCP, as it experiences dynamic biogeochemical conditions driven by Loop Current eddies, transient tropical cyclone events, and pulsed input of nutrients and organic matter via Mississippi River discharge. The deployment of two sediment traps on a single mooring will allow for sample collections to be treated distinctly to best preserve eDNA in Trap 1 (e.g., using a DNA preservative) and particulate materials in Trap 2 (buffered formalin). Trap 1 will be stationed at 120 m (near the bottom of the nGoM euphotic zone) and Trap 2 will be stationed at 700 m water depth to maximize microfossil collection (also for historical time-series consistency). The traps will be programmed to collect samples on a biweekly to monthly basis and will be recovered and redeployed on an approximately annual basis.