Physical drivers of chlorophyll and nutrients variability in the Southern-Central Arabian Gulf

The southern-central Arabian Gulf demonstrates a poor understanding of nutrients and chlorophyll dynamics in physical-biogeochemical settings. Here, using data of chlorophyll, nutrients and hydrographic parameters collected in two cruises in summer 2019 and winter 2020, we examined variability in nutrients and chlorophyll concentrations, and the driving mechanisms. Summer thermal stratification enhanced by intrusion of fresher surface water plume from the Arabian Sea developed a hypoxic zone (DO < 2.0 mL/L) below the thermocline. Nitrate and ammonium summer concentrations (2.24 +/- 0.36, 1.70 +/- 0.17 mu M) were about 3 times the winter concentrations. Nutrient stoichiometry showed a Redfield-like nitrogen/phosphorus (N:P) ratio in summer (15.9:1) and a nitrogen limitation in winter (N:P = 4:1). Chlorophyll-a content in summer (mean = 0.80 mg/m3) was about 1.4 times the winter concentration (mean = 0.58 mg/m3) (p > 0.05). Photo-protective carotenoids content in summer (0.59 mg/m3) was about 2.7 times their winter concentration. Winter cooling resulted in downwelling of dense water on the shallow coastal banks, which enhanced near bottom oxygen concentrations and swept away nutrient-rich water resulting in lower winter chlorophyll. This research features aspects of the physical and biogeochemical drivers underpinning the dynamics of nutrients and chlorophyll in the central Gulf.

Automated summary

Using data collected in two cruises in summer 2019 and winter 2020, this study examines the variability in nutrients and chlorophyll concentrations in the southern-central Arabian Gulf and identifies the driving mechanisms. The results reveal differences in nutrient and chlorophyll concentrations between seasons, with higher concentrations in summer. Summer thermal stratification and intrusion of fresher surface water from the Arabian Sea contribute to the development of a hypoxic zone and increased nutrient concentrations. Winter cooling results in lower chlorophyll concentrations due to nutrient depletion caused by downwelling of dense water.