Influence of hypoxia on silicate concentrations in the Baltic Proper (Baltic Sea)

Silica (Si) is a key nutrient for diatoms. Over the last century, Si concentrations within the Baltic Sea decreased significantly. This is mainly attributed to ongoing eutrophication, increased production and subsequent deposition and accumulation of organic matter including biogenic silica. As a consequence of the eutrophication, hypoxic and anoxic bottom waters have spread affecting nutrient cycling. This paper looks at the potential impact of oxygen on dissolved silica (DSi). It presents a statistical analysis of the relationship between DSi concentrations and oxygen conditions (O-2) in the deep water of the Baltic Proper. The idea is not new, but this is the first time it is studied in more detail in this area. Regression analysis shows that DSi concentrations decrease significantly with O-2 concentrations, and that the major intrusion of saline water in 1993 strengthened this relationship. Increased hypoxia will significantly affect the cycling of Si in the Baltic Sea.