Setting the scene

Abstract

Some key elements that determine the diversity of species and ecosystems in the Arctic marine environment are the high degree of seasonality in environmental conditions, critical influence of the large continental shelves and sea ice, Box 2.1 Some features of the sea ice environment Marine areas seasonally or permanently covered by sea ice are a globally unique habitat. Ice edges and open water areas favour wind-driven mixing of the seawater that enhances local production and can create biological hotspots. Some key features of the sea ice environment in the Arctic include: Polynyas: areas of permanently or frequently open water in winter surrounded by sea ice Leads: linear stretches of open water in sea ice, often between landfast ice and pack ice Marginal ice zones: transition areas from pack ice to open water Upwelling zones: where deep, often nutrient-rich water rises to the surface due to wind or currents interacting with bathymetry These and other features of the sea ice environment are illustrated below: Box figure 2.1. Some features of the sea ice environment. Marine areas seasonally or permanently covered by sea ice are a globally unique habitat. Ice edges and open water areas favour wind-driven mixing of the seawater that enhances local production and can create biological hotspots. Adapted from Eamer et al. (2013).