Characterization of Bio-optical Properties and their Interrelations in Southern South China Sea

Abstract

This study focuses on the variability and relationships of bio-optical properties with optically active constituents in the southern South China Sea. On these bases, the applicability and the limits of reliability of satellite ocean colour algorithm in this study area were also assessed. To achieve this goal, two study areas with distinct bio-optical conditions: Brunei Bay (BB) coastal water which characterized by high riverine discharge, strong phytoplankton blooms and suspended particles, and east coast of peninsular Malaysia (ECPM) water with relatively low chlorophyll and suspended particle concentrations; were intensively investigated. In both study areas, in-situ measurements of underwater radiation fields, in-water constituents and absorption properties were conducted during bio-optical cruises in January and May 2014.