Fixed-nitrogen loss in a deoxygenating coastal ocean: Insights from the
Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence
Abstract
Bioavailable nitrogen governs ocean productivity and carbon fixation by
regulating phytoplankton growth and community composition. Nitrogen
input primarily results from fixation, while denitrification and ANAMMOX
removes bioavailable nitrogen in oxygen-depleted conditions.
Traditionally considered limited to highly suboxic (i.e., < 5
µM) waters, recent studies suggest fixed-nitrogen removal processes may
extend beyond, elevating global nitrogen loss estimates. This study
directly quantifies fixed-nitrogen loss across oxygen gradients (from
140 to 35 µM) along the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence using N cycle
tracers (, and ). Notably, we observe significant production when
concentrations fall below 57-52 µM, including unexpected water column
fixed-nitrogen removal processes above suboxia. Benthic production
remains unaffected under intensifying deoxygenation from 50 down to 34
µM, but sedimentary nitrification contribution to denitrification
diminishes with intensifying deoxygenation. Combined, water column and
benthic fixed-nitrogen removal processes drive anomalies and strong
deficiency in bottom waters. Additionally, observed concentration
threshold triggers production, unveiling the profound impact of ocean
deoxygenation on nitrogen cycling, challenging conventional expectations
even at hypoxic concentrations.