SONNE SO308/1

The research topic of the cruise is to determine in detail the distributions, sources and sinks of trace elements and their isotopes (TEIs) in the water column along a zonal section in one of the least studied ocean regions on earth. We aim to investigate the biogeochemical cycling of TEIs, and their interactions with surface ocean productivity and the carbon and nitrogen cycles given that some TEIs act as micronutrients. The findings will have global significance for understanding the chemical environment in which ecosystems operate. The cruise will officially be part of the internationally coordinated programme GEOTRACES.