Interannual variability of spring bloom in the Gulf of Maine observed by SeaWiFS

Eight years of SeaWiFS data quantify variability in the time/space patterns of spring bloom development in the Gulf of Maine (GOM). Maximum and earliest spring bloom are usually observed over Georges Bank, later on the deep basins from the west to the east GOM, and latest development along the eastern Maine coast in cold, tidally mixed water. Pronounced interannual variability of spring bloom timing, spatial position, and magnitude are shown in the GOM. Strongest negative anomalies are present in April 1998 and 2001 over Georges Bank and the eastern GOM, and in January to April of 2005 over the most of GOM. Positive anomalies are strong in April 2001, 2003 and 2004 in varying locations as well as in February and March 1999. It is suggested that interannaul variability in spring phytoplankton bloom concentrations is strongly associated with changes in water mass and stratification which might be influenced by basin-scale forcing due to large climate change.