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Water Analyses

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bathythermograph - records temperature and depth

salinity - many organisms in the open ocean only tolerate a narrow salinity range. Can also be used to help follow currents.

oxygen - varies with depth. Most locations have a clearly defined oxygen minimum layer.

phosphate - nutrient needed by phytoplankton

nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia - also essential to phytoplankton growth. Like phosphate, too much can cause an overgrowth of phytoplankton that can cause an oxygen depleted 'dead zone.'

silcate - used in the shells of diatoms and some sponges