Seasonal and long-term dynamics of the chlorophyll concentration in the Black Sea according to satellite observations

摘要

The spatial and temporal variability of the chlorophyll (Chl) concentration in the surface water layer of the Black Sea in 1998-2008 has been analyzed using the data obtained by the SeaWiFS satellite sensor. In the deep-sea areas, the seasonal pattern of the Chl concentration is represented by a U-shape curve. The maximal concentrations are observed in the winter-spring and autumn periods, while the minimal, in the summertime. In the northwestern Black Sea, the maximal concentrations are registered in mostly the summer and autumn periods. Pronounced interannual variability is found for the summer concentrations of Chl observed for an 11-year period. After a cold winter, the concentration of Chl in the spring period is 3-5 times higher compared to the mild-winter years. In December-March, a negative correlation between the water temperature and the average Chl concentration is registered.