biolimiting elements A few elements (N, P, and Si) which are almost totally depleted in surface waters, relative to deep water, by biological activity. As these elements are essential to living organisms, the depletion limits further biological production until the scarce elements are replaced, e.g. by upwelling. Compare biointermediate elements and biounlimiting elements.

biolimiting elements A few elements (N, P, and Si) which are almost totally depleted in surface waters, relative to deep water, by biological activity. As these elements are essential to living organisms, the depletion limits further biological production until the scarce elements are replaced, e.g. by upwelling. Compare BIOINTERMEDIATE ELEMENTS; and BIOUNLIMITING ELEMENTS.