Collaborative Research: Production and Dissolution of Calcium Carbonate in the Global Ocean: A Synthesis and Modeling Project

Pennsylvania State Univ University Park, University Park PA

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT OCE-0136503 OCE-0136541 OCE-0136621 OCE-0137144 Combining their expertise in calcification, satellite algorithms, sediment trap interpretation, water column chemistry, sediment geochemistry and global modeling, five principal investigators propose a multidisciplinary approach aimed at improving the uncertainties in the rates of CaCO3 cycling in the ocean. To achieve this goal, the PIs plan to address the following four objectives on both a regional and a global scale: (1) improve estimates of the standing stock and calcification rates of surface ocean particulate inorganic carbon; (2) improve estimates of surface CaCO3 export; (3) improve estimates of shallow (100-1000m) dissolution rates; and (4) improve estimates of deep (>1000m) dissolution rates. Results from this study will be basin-scale and global carbonate budgets to improve our understanding of carbonate production, export and shallow/deep water dissolution in the marine environment.