Abstract
Molecular and stable carbon isotopic compositions were obtained for the organic matter (OM) in sediment trap samples from the Japan Trench at 4500 and 8500–8800 m in depth. The analytical results show that OM in sinking particles are composed of both freshly-deposited and resuspended OM. The relative abundance of resuspended OM in the total OM in shallower sediment trap samples is generally lower than that in deeper trap samples. However, no marked differences both in py-GCMS characteristics and stable carbon isotopic compositions of TOC and biomarkers (n-alkanes, fatty acids) are recognized. All sinking particles examined indicate that the major source of OM is plankton-derived. Terrestrial OM contribution is minor.
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