Digital Commons - University of South Florida (University of South Florida) · 2014 · 193 citations · 0 references
Life SciencesEcologyBiogeochemistryPhycologyPlankton EcologyPhytoplankton EcologyPlankton Nutrient CyclingPrimary ProductionPrimary ProductivityPhytoplankton Community CompositionPhytoplankton Functional TraitsPhytoplankton Functional TypesPhytoplankton Primary ProductionPhytoplankton ProductionPhytoplankton ProductivityPhytoplankton Species CompositionPhytoplankton Taxonomy
The concept of phytoplankton functional types has emerged as a useful approach to classifying phytoplankton and can be used to obtain a better understanding of ecological and biogeochemical processes. Recent developments in remote sensing provide a unique opportunity to study some phytoplankton functional types through analysis of ocean-colour data. Remote sensing of phytoplankton functional types is an emerging field, whose potential is not fully realised, nor its limitations clearly established. This report provides an overview of progress to date, examining the advantages and limitations of various methods, and providing suggestions for further development.