Redfield ratio 2023

Characterize the phytoplankton specific Redfield ratio (C:N:P) along a natural gradient of dissolved nutrients. This work will involve a track along the US West Coast where large gradients of dissolved nutrients have been historically observed. Continuous ships flowthrough seawater will be sampled along with hydrographic casts (4-8 per day). Data collection will include bottle casts for discrete depth samples (surface to 200m). Discrete samples from bottles and flow through system for flow cytometry, Particulate C,N,P, phytoplankton pigments and total dissolved N, P. On deck incubations will be performed in plexiglass tanks with seawater cooling. Deployment of a weighted trace metal clean tubing and deck-based electric teflon bellows pump will be required for offshore (250-400 km) stations.