Biological productivity enhancement over a continental shelf break (Bay of Biscay, NE Atlantic) evidenced by mesozooplankton aspartate transcarbamylase activity

摘要

During spring 2005, satellite imagery revealed high sea surface chlorophyll a concentrations over the edge of a wide continental shelf in the Bay of Biscay (NE Atlantic). As a descriptor of biological productivity, mesozooplankton aspartate transcarbamylase specific activity was measured in situ during the bloom. Notably high values were detected in the bloom area relative to other parts of the study area.