Environmental Investigation of the Effects of Deep-Sea Mining on the Phytoplankton in the Tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean, with Special Attention on Primary Productivity

摘要

Experiments were performed during two cruises of the R.V. Oceanographer in November 1978 and March 1979 to assess the potential effects of the mining of manganese nodules on the local phytoplankton photosynthesis and primary production in the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean. The short-term (on the order of a few hours) reduction in primary production due to the light attenuation effects caused by the mining discharge was estimated at approximately 40%. Stimulation or inhibition of photosynthesis by the mining discharge was not observed. The long-term effect of the mining activity on the phytoplankton community and on primary production is discussed.