RV CIRLANA 5A/1996 Low-Resolution CTD Data from European Shelf Cruises

Research vessel data collected by CEFAS broadly covering the European Shelf and the Iberian Abyssal Plain. The data were gathered using a lowered CTD rosette system while the vessel was stationary, with profiles taken from the surface to near the seabed. The exact parameters collected vary by cruise, with early years focusing on pressure, temperature, and conductivity, while later years added sensors like fluorometers and transmissometers.

Use Cases

• Calculate salinity profiles based on conductivity data using UNESCO 1978/1983 formulations.
• Analyze vertical water column structure based on pressure (depth) and temperature profiles.
• Study phytoplankton biomass distribution based on fluorometer data mentioned for later cruises.
• Investigate water clarity or sediment load based on optical backscatter or transmissometer data.

Strengths

• Data collection follows a standardized oceanographic method using a lowered CTD rosette system.
• Coverage includes the European Shelf and extends to the Iberian Abyssal Plain.
• The description specifies a progression in sensor capabilities over time, adding fluorometers and light sensors.

Limitations

• Row count and file size are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• The last update date is unknown; freshness is unverified.

Provenance

Source

CEFAS (Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science) research cruises.

Collection Method

Collected using a lowered CTD rosette system on station, with profiles from surface to near seabed.

Time Range

Cruises from 1996 onward, with sensor configurations evolving over years.

Freshness

Last updated: unknown

Geography

Broadly covers the European Shelf, with some data from the Iberian Abyssal Plain.