Using Multiple Metrics to Analyze Bloom Dynamics of Tripos muelleri in the Gulf of Maine during Summer 2023
The Gulf of Maine typically experiences a prominent spring bloom dominated by diatoms; however, in 2023, an extensive and intense bloom of the dinoflagellate, Tripos muelleri, was observed, with concentrations exceeding those previously recorded. Our study used multiple methods, including 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing and image and pigment analyses, to reconstruct the bloom community structure. In addition, community composition was integrated with oceanographic data to identify the potential triggers of the bloom persistence and demise.