This paper deals with a model of the pelagic ecosystem in the English Channel The model takes into account nitrogen biogeochemical cycle explicitly and indirectly phosphorus, silicon and carbon ones. The pelagic ecosystem is described precisely, on the one hand with the help of three phytoplanktonic compartments, and the other by considering the microbial food web. Primary production appears to be mainly controlled by stratification and turbidity, except in the Bay of Seine where high terrestrial nutrient inputs generate a sharp enrichment. Moreover, the model allows some general ecological conclusions to be drawn. From the simulation, it appears that inorganic nitrogen in the water column is mainly produced by an intense recycling. In accordance with in... |