What Does HNLC Stand For?

HNLC stands for High Nutrient Low Chlorophyll

HNLC, or High Nutrient Low Chlorophyll, refers to a marine phenomenon characterized by elevated concentrations of essential nutrients, such as nitrate and phosphate, in surface waters that exhibit low levels of chlorophyll-a, the pigment associated with phytoplankton. This condition often occurs in regions where nutrient influx exceeds the growth of phytoplankton, leading to a paradoxical situation where nutrient-rich waters are not optimally utilized for primary production. HNLC areas are significant for understanding oceanic ecosystems, carbon cycling, and the broader implications of nutrient dynamics on marine life and climate.