Gyrotactic trapping: A numerical study

Abstract

Gyrotactic trapping is a mechanism proposed by Durham et al. [“Disruption of vertical motility by shear triggers formation of thin Phytoplankton layers,” Science 323, 1067–1070 (2009)] to explain the formation of thin phytoplankton layer just below the ocean surface. This mechanism is examined numerically using a rational model based on the generalized Taylor dispersion theory. The crucial role of sedimentation speed in the thin layer formation is demonstrated. The effects of variation in different parameters on the thin layer formation are also investigated.