| SS9.01 Ecosystem Science Practiced in an Urbanized Estuary: South San Francisco Bay |
| Thompson, J, K, U.S. Geological Survey, Menlo Park, USA, jthompso@usgs.gov |
| Koseff, J, R, Stanford University, Stanford , Mexico, koseff@stanford.edu |
| Monismith, S, G, Stanford University, Stanford , Albania, monismith@stanford.edu |
| Lucas, L, V, U.S. Geological Survey, Menlo Park, USA, llucas@usgs.gov |
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| MODELING AND FIELD OBSERVATIONS OF ALGAL BLOOMS IN SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO BAY, 4: INTEGRATION OF NUMERICAL MODELS AND FIELD OBSERVATIONS |
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| Aquatic ecologists have long recognized that numerical models are useful in developing hypotheses and examining processes that include parameters with varying spatial and temporal scales. However, integration of such parameters is challenging because field data are rarely available at the scales used in models. Ecologists can use models to inform their decisions about relevant sampling scales and processes, but for the models to be accurate, the modelers need appropriate data during model development. In answer to this conundrum we have developed an iterative process between modeling and field sampling in South San Francisco Bay (SSFB) that has allowed us to better understand the critical processes in algal bloom development. We will show how our field program “dynamically” changed in response to results from 1-D, Pseudo-2D, and 2-D models and how these changes resulted in models that accurately characterize field observations and helped us understand the relevant ecological processes. This integrative approach has highlighted new directions for model development (eg. small scale variations in light availability (May et al. this session), possible nutrient limitation) and for future field programs. |
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