The SCOPE-Gradients program is designed to test conceptual and mathematical models
of biogeochemical organization across the transition zone between different ecosystems.
Our studies are grounded by three hypotheses derived from ecological theory and
manifested by the Darwin ecosystem model output.
Optimal supply ratios of fixed nitrogen and iron result in enhanced productivity
across the transition zone.
The size distribution of organisms (PSD) across the transition zone are predictable
under steady state conditions.
Trends in elemental and macro-molecular composition of primary producers will vary
predictably across the transition zone.
We employ a suite of interdisciplinary sampling strategies on process cruises transecting
across the North Pacific subtropical gyre, the transition zone and into the subpolar gyres
in order to determine whether the theory underlying our models and driving hypotheses are
sufficiently robust to predict in situ observations.
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