Particulate Scattering and Backscattering in Relation to the Nature of Particles in the Red Sea

Measurements of light scattering can be used to quantify the concentration and composition oceanic particles, resolve biogeochemical processes spanning different time space scales. In this paper, we analyze first dataset, collected over wide spatial scales in Red Sea, particulate (), backscattering absorption chlorophyll-a [Chl_a]. We fit a three-component conceptual model relating [Chl_a], assuming fixed background component two additional components driven by small (<2m) large phytoplankton (>2m) ( , respectively). extend approach, for time, modeling total allowing us retrieve ratio each model. observe high which, when analyzed alongside measurements absorption, suggests it is likely dominated non-algal (rather than algal) particles. The contribution particles at low [Chl_a] may related unique conditions or more broadly, characteristic other conditions. work illustrates how combine optical with models, understand better ultimately, improve monitoring marine processes. Our will also useful developing regional ocean-color models Sea.