The Gulf of Aqaba (Eilat)
Both the Gulf of Aqaba and the northern Red Sea are sites of key interest for both coral reef and open ocean microbial research. Unusually both aquatic systems are situated relatively close to the shore. The coral reefs here are well known to experience intensive environmental (high light, high temperature) and anthropogenic (tourism, industry) conditions for much of the year. The open ocean is characterized semi- permanent stratification and therefore frequently subjected conditions that support the concept of nitrogen as a proximate- and phosphate as an ultimate-limiting nutrient for primary production. Staff and students will conduct experiments here in both coral reef and open ocean systems in 2008 as part of the international 8th GAP (Group for Aquatic Productivity) meeting. Specifically, we will investigate how environmental factors control the coupling between photosynthesis and growth for these key aquatic systems.
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