The Collection of High Resolution Spatial and Temporal surface data from the Irish Sea during 2000

The aim is to acquire high resolution spatial and temporal surface
data for numerical modelling of Irish Sea processes. Emphasis will be
on collection of nitrate and silicate data using an autonomous
nutrient analyser (ANA) deployed on research ships during an
EU-sponsored fish egg abundance survey (nine cruises between January
and July 2000). Near-surface temperature and salinity sill be
recoreded and water samples collected from selected locations for
microplankton analysis.

The vertical distribution of chlorophyll and nutrients will be
determined during Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland
research cruises. Changes in nutrient loads will be quantified in
relation to seasonal cycles of primary and secondary production. The
influence of freshwater on nutrient regimes will be assessed using
nutrient-salinity relationships.