ΔO2/N2′ as a New Tracer of Marine Net Community Production: Application and Evaluation in the Subarctic Northeast Pacific and Canadian Arctic Ocean

We compared field measurements of the biological O 2 saturation anomalies, ΔO /Ar and /N , from simultaneous oceanographic deployments a membrane inlet mass spectrometer optode/gas tension device (GTD). Data Subarctic Northeast Pacific Canadian Arctic Ocean were used to evaluate as an alternative for estimates mixed layer net community production (NCP). observed strong spatial coherence between with small offsets resulting differences in solubility properties Ar N their sensitivity vertical mixing fluxes. Larger two tracers across hydrographic fronts under elevated sea states, differential time-response optode GTD, bubble dissolution ship’s seawater lines. simple numerical framework correct physical sources divergence Ar, deriving tracer ′. Over most our survey regions, ′ provided better analog /Ar, thus more accurate NCP than . However, coastal waters, performed equally well tracers. On average, estimated agreed within ∼2 mmol m –2 d –1 typically smaller other errors calculations. Our results demonstrate significant potential derive underway various oceanic regions. Optode/GTD systems could replace spectrometers autonomous derivation many conditions, thereby presenting opportunities significantly expand global coverage platforms.