Lagrangian Growth-Advection Model

Current Context: Researchers from Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) and Florida State University developed a new method using satellite data to estimate oceanic carbon export more accurately.

About the Model:

• Combines Lagrangian methods (tracking individual particles) + Advection (fluid movement) + Biological growth.
• Tracks phytoplankton succession and carbon movement in dynamic regions (e.g., California Current).

Key Innovations:

• Incorporates temporal and spatial lags in carbon export.
• Includes zooplankton activity and subsurface dynamics.
• Independent of ocean color data, overcoming limitations of traditional chlorophyll-based models.

Significance:

• Matches field data (e.g., Station M carbon monitoring).
• Enhances understanding of the biological pump—critical for climate change models and carbon sequestration