Dynamics of temperature and chlorophyll structures above a seamount: an oceanic experiment.

Three hydrographic surveys were conducted over Minami-kasuga Seamount, NW Pacific. A cold dome, similar to a Taylor column, was observed above the seamount top during the first survey. Uplifted isotherms penetrated to the lower euphotic zone and were associated with higher chlorophyll concentrations. Seamounts are a source of both biological and physical patchiness in the surrounding ocean as features developed above them are swept away. Observations suggest that a sharp chlorophyll maximum can be formed by enhanced in situ growth following a sub-surface upwelling event. -from Authors