Which process inhibits primary productivity when coastal upwelling currents weaken substantially?

💡 Explanation

When upwelling weakens, the vertical transport of nutrient-rich water from the deep ocean to the surface photic zone decreases because density differences limiting mixing dominate, leading to nutrient limitation, and diminished phytoplankton growth. Therefore reduced nutrient supply is correct, rather than turbidity, temperature changes or stratification which would require alternative mechanisms.

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