- Dona Paula, Goa, India.
- +91-0832- 2450327
- iiosc2020[at]nio[dot]org
| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-2022-02-0144 |
| Title of Abstract | A synopsis of the 110°E voyage of the second International Indian Ocean Expedition |
| Authors | Lynnath Beckley* |
| Organisation | Murdoch University |
| Address | Environmental & Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South St., Murdoch Perth, Western Australia, Australia Pincode: 6150 Mobile: 61437424245 E-mail: L.Beckley@murdoch.edu.au |
| Country | Australia |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | In the 1960s, Australia made a significant contribution to the first International Indian Ocean Expedition by regularly occupying the 110°E line in the south-east Indian Ocean. Nearly six decades later, as part of IIOE-2, a multi-disciplinary team revisited the 110°E line in May and June 2019 with the RV Investigator. This presentation provides a synopsis of the science undertaken during this recent voyage with indications of the emerging results. Using full depth CTDs (>5000 m) and a 36-bottle rosette at 20 stations, we collected data to assess change in physical, chemical and biological properties of the water column. Extensive sampling of microbes for genomics, biogeography and functional diversity was completed and on-board nitrogen fixation and uptake incubations were accomplished at all stations. Components of the food web from phytoplankton through to meso-pelagic fishes were sampled to examine trophic relationships and on-board experiments were conducted to determine grazing by micro-zooplankton. Algal pigments, particle concentrations, primary production and bio-optical quantities along 110°E were determined and will allow ground truthing of satellite remote sensing of sea surface colour. Other activities included acoustic monitoring of whales, Triaxus underway CTD tows and deployment of weather buoys and Argo floats. Our findings are resulting in a better understanding of the pelagic ecosystem in the south-east Indian Ocean, particularly in view of documented warming. |