Gigantic Phytoplankton Bloom in Patagonia

A stunning photograph taken by the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (Suomi NPP) showcases a massive phytoplankton bloom off the east coast of Chubut province, Argentina. The image, captured between November 2014 and March 2015, reveals a vibrant mass of algae extending over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) across the Patagonian Shelf Break, a renowned hotspot for phytoplankton activity. The Patagonian Shelf Break is characterized by its unique environmental conditions that foster phytoplankton growth. During the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer, a combination of windblown dust, iron-rich ocean currents, and cold water upwelling creates an ideal nutrient-rich environment. NASA's Earth Observatory notes that these factors contribute significantly to the prolific blooms observed in this region. The photograph highlights two primary types of phytoplankton: coccolithophores, which are identified by their lighter aquamarine swirls and protective calcium carbonate plating, and darker green patches composed of diatoms, dinoflagellates, and other chlorophyll-rich species. This diverse ecosystem plays a crucial role in the marine food web and carbon cycling. However, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Marine Sciences indicates that the Patagonian Shelf Break is experiencing rapid acidification due to increased CO2 absorption, raising concerns about the long-term health of this vital marine environment.