SUBPROJECT - B4

 

Nitrogen losses and nutrient regeneration in oxygen deficient waters

 

Nutrient measurements indicate that 30-50% of the total nitrogen loss in the ocean occurs in oxygen minimum zones (OMZs). This project investigated the effects of oxygen concentrations on nutrient regeneration and N-loss processes in oxygen deficient waters. Rates of N-loss and nitrification at in situ O2 concentrations were determined, and the micro-organisms involved were identified using molecular biological techniques. The results enhanced our understanding of the impact of low-oxygen conditions and potential future changes on the nutrient inventory of the tropical oceans.

 

 

Contact:
Prof. Ruth Schmitz-Streit                 Prof. Marcel Kuypers
Tel.: +49 431 880 4334                    Tel.: +49 421 2028 647
rschmitz(a)gpi.uni-kiel.de                 mkuypers(a)mpi-bremen.de