Role of colored dissolved organic matter in the dynamics of the Earth System

Kim Grace, Johns Hopkins University, gpark16@jhu.edu
Anand Gnanadesikan, Johns Hopkins University, gnanades@jhu.edu (Presenter)

In the last decade, the coupled climate models used for Earth System Prediction have moved towards using dynamically predicted absorption of shortwave radiation. These parameterizations, however, use only chlorophyll, neglecting the potentially important role of colored dissolved materials (CDM). We show recent work evaluating the impact of including CDM in a fully coupled Earth System Model. Significant impacts are seen on ocean productivity in coastal regions, with ocean color increasing surface chlorophyll and biomass but decreasing productivity overall as it becomes more concentrated near the surface. Changes are also seen in Arctic Sea Ice, with the additional absorption preventing the formation of a warm subsurface layer that delays the formation of sea ice in the wintertime.

Presentation Type:  Poster

Session:  Theme 2: Landscapes to coasts: understanding Earth system connections   (Mon 1:30 PM)

Associated Project(s): 

• Related Activity: Related Activity or Previously Funded CC&E Activity not listed ...details

Poster Location ID: 82