The Photosynthetic Action Spectra of the Phytoplankton and Their Role in Governing Spatial and Temporal Distribution: A Numerical Modeling Approach

<p>In the present study a numerical modeling approach is employed to examine the role of division spedific differences in photosynthetic action spectra in governing the relative size of diatom and dinoflagellate carbon synthesis along various marine light regime gradients. A radiative transfer model taking into account both Rayleigh and Mie atmospheric optical properties is employed to define the light regime incident on the sea surface. The hydrospheric light regime is defined by an exponential decay model with a correction for diffuse back scatter. Taken together, the atmospheric and hydrospheric models define the spectral composition and intensity of light in the sea as a function of solar altitude and depth. This permits the simulation of realistic spectral gradients along various temporal and spatial dimensions of the marine environment: diurnal, seasonal, vertical, and latitudinal. A spectrally sensitive model of photosynthesis is employed to determine the rates at which carbon compounds are synthesized a t various points along these gradients. The ratio (between dinoflagellate and diatom carbon synthesis is determined by taking into account differences in division specific photosynthetic action spectra.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Ocean & Earth Sciences

Year dc:date.available

1978

Author dc:creator

• Willis, William Morrow

Contributors dc:contributor

• Harris H. White
• Chester E. Grosch
• Anthony J. Provenzano
• Frank P. Day
• George S. Ofelt
• John C. Ludwick

• Plankton
• Photosynthesis
• Numerical modeling
• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
• Oceanography

Statement dc:rights

• <p>In Copyright. URI: <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/</a> This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).</p>

Identifier

9781083494719

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.odu.edu:oeas_etds-1164