| A 6 yr time series of high frequency inherent optical property (IOP) measurements in the Mediterranean was used to derive information on the diel and seasonal variability of particulate production. Empirical relationships between particulate attenuation (c(p)), particulate backscattering (b(bp)), and particulate organic carbon allowed calculation of estimates of net community production (NCP), daytime NCP (NCPd), and gross community production (GCP) from the diel variations in either IOP. Similar seasonal variations and good correlation (r = 5 0.83, p < 0.001) between daily means of c(p) and b(bp) were observed, yet differences in the timing and amplitude of their diel cycles led to significant differences in their derived production metrics. Best... |
