Remote sensing of chlorophyll a concentrations in the Earth's oceans has revealed that marine plankton biomass is
A) nearly homogeneous over huge expanses of ocean.
B) highest in the open ocean.
C) highest in the warmest waters.
D) highest in the deepest waters.
E) highest in cooler, upwelling areas near shore.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Remote sensing studies have shown that marine plankton biomass, as indicated by chlorophyll a concentrations, is highest in cooler, upwelling areas near shore. These areas have high nutrient inputs from benthic sources, wind-driven upwelling, and mixing of deep, nutrient-rich waters with surface waters. This supports high levels of primary productivity and plankton biomass.

Remote Sensing of Chlorophyll a Concentrations in the Earth's Oceans