A serious inhibition problem from a Niskin sampler during plankton productivity studies

Abstract

Low photosynthetic rates and reductions in chlorophyll concentrations were observed in incubations of samples taken with a 30‐liter Niskin sampler during productivity studies of oligotrophic waters in the Indian Ocean. By contrast there appeared to be no effect on community respiration. The rates of photosynthesis were 5‐fold to 10‐fold greater in samples taken with Teflon‐lined 10‐liter GoFlo bottles, and there was no systematic loss of chlorophyll. The central rubber cord of the Niskin sampler was identified as a potent source of contamination.