SEASONAL AND INTERANNUAL VARIABILITY OF CHLOROPHYLL A IN OKHOTSK SEA FROM SEAWIFS DATA

Spatial distribution, seasonal and interannual variability of chlorophyll a concentration in Okhotsk Sea from SeaWiFS data between 2001 and 2004 were describe. An Empirical Orthogonal Function method was applied for analysis data. The ten modes described about 85% of total variance. Two maxima were defined - more intensive in spring and weaker in autumn. The first mode showed zones with chlorophyll a concentration during maximum bloom. The second mode specified timing of spring bloom in various regions in Okhotsk Sea. Analysis of SeaWiFS data indicated connection between highest chlorophyll a concentration and sea surface temperature limits during spring bloom. Similar relation was not found during fall bloom.