The effect of present‐day levels of ultraviolet radiation (290–320 nm) on 14C incorporation by natural phytoplankton populations was measured. There is a statistical relationship between dosage and reduction of 14C uptake. This effect could be detected throughout a significant portion of the euphotic zone, but the major effect is restricted to the upper portions of the euphotic zone. Overall, its effect on present‐day estimates of oceanic production is minimal. Similarly, potential effects of elevated UV‐B levels striking the surface of the sea, resulting from perturbations of the ozone layer, are restricted to the upper few meters of the water column.
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Carl J. Lorenzen (1979) studied this question.