First characterization of the marine ecosystem of Archer Fiord in the Lasting Ice Area of the High Arctic: a productivity paradox

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Abstract
The Lasting Ice Area along the northern coastline of Ellesmere Island and Greenland will be the region where Arctic multiyear sea ice will persist the longest in a warming climate, making this area critical for ice-dependent species. In 2019, the Tuvaijuittuq Marine Protected Area was established for the interim protection of the waters off northern Ellesmere Island. We present the first comprehensive study of the Archer Fiord–Lady Franklin Bay system located at the northern end of Nares Strait, in the Tuvaijuittuq area. Data on the hydrography, biogeochemical cycles, pelagic and benthic productivity, and seabed sediment were collected along a nearshore-offshore transect. The region is influenced by meteoric waters as well as Pacific and Atlantic-derived waters, and likely acts as a strong seasonal CO 2 sink. Despite fall-bloom conditions, low primary, secondary, and benthic productivity contrasted with the relatively high abundance of marine mammals. This productivity paradox either suggests (1) that organic matter and detritus deposited and accumulated over long periods prior to our survey sustain the benthic community on which marine mammals depend for foraging; (2) local productivity hotspots in areas outside the sampled stations; or (3) a highly efficient system with minor production surpluses. Solving this paradox will require further surveys in the area.
Funding Information
  • ArcticNet
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada
  • Canada Foundation for Innovation
  • Canada First Research Excellence Fund (Transforming)
  • Canada First Research Excellence Fund (Climate)
  • Canada First Research Excellence Fund (Action)
  • Network of Centres of Excellence in Canada
  • Amundsen Science
  • NSERC

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