Distribution of particulate amino acids in the Bransfield Strait

Summary The depth distribution and composition of residual amino acids was determined in December 1980 in the Bransfield Strait. The major components were aspartic and glutamic acids together with alanine, glycine and serine. Non-protein amino acids were not found in significant amounts. On the average, the amino acids accounted for 25% of the total organic carbon and 50% of the organic nitrogen. Amino acid nitrogen/chlorophyll ratios indicated that in most euphotic zone samples phytoplankton in good physiological condition was present whereas heavily degraded material was found in deeper water layers. Statistical treatment and cluster analysis show distinct differences between euphotic and aphotic zone samples which could be used to characterize phytoplankton communities.