Old and new perspectives on zooplankton and vertical particle flux

Abstract

Our understanding of the relationships between zooplankton and vertical flux of particles in the North Atlantic has matured over the last half century. Evolving from the simple concept of 11 grazing inhibits sedimentation", the relationship gained additional system-dependent quantitative as well as qualitative dimensions. The "zooplankton" and mediated processes such as production of feces are now recognized to be diverse and pivotal components influencing the distribution of oceanic carbon. New aspects, such as the magnitude of the downward flux of carbon via migrant zooplankton stocks or leaching of dissolved organic carbon from zooplankters and feces in the water column and in particle collectors, have recently received elucidation. This paper sketches the progression of some of the milestones and indicates the most recent developments in the "zooplankton - vertical flux" concept.