Seasonal phytoplankton production in the western English Channel 1964–1974

Abstract

Over a period of 10 years, 1964–74, primary production has been measured at three stations across the western English Channel using the ¹⁴C method. Results for carbon fixation, cell counts and mean seasonal production are illustrated. Statistical analyses show that, at two of the three stations, carbon fixation in 1966 was significantly greater than expected and that annual production differs significantly at each of the stations. The variations observed are discussed in relation to other changes recorded in the area during the same period. A deck incubator used for simulated in situ¹⁴C experiments is illustrated.