Analysis of satellite-derived time series of particulate organic carbon concentrations in surface layers of the global ocean
Analysis of satellite-derived time series of particulate organic carbon concentrations in surface layers of the global ocean
Abstract:
The standing stock of particulate organic carbon (POC) is a key component of the oceanic carbon pool and linked to several biogeochemical and ecological processes. Remote-sensing observations provide a means to monitor large scale spatial and temporal variations of this carbon pool in support of ocean carbon science and ecosystem studies. Using a new algorithm developed from high-quality field observations, we generated monthly maps of POC in the surface layer of the global ocean using ocean color data from 3 satellite missions (SeaWiFS, MODIS-AQUA, SNPP-VIIRS). Continuity of the POC product between missions was evaluated using periods of mission overlap, and the results used to generate a single multi-sensor time series of POC spanning a 21-year period. This dataset is used to quantify variability in the seasonal magnitudes and phenology of surface POC concentrations, and to examine long-term trends in POC at both the global scale and for specific ocean regions and biogeochemical provinces.