Carbon export (from the epipelagic towards the mesopelagic zone) and sequestration (from the mesopelagic towards the bathypelagic zone) in the ocean are reviewed. Particulate organic carbon (POC) flux, and active flux due to migrant zooplankton and micronekton are shown from the epipelagic to the mesopelagic zone, and from the latter to the bathypelagic zone. Values towards the meso- and bathypelagic zones are compared in oligotrophic and productive systems. Zooplankton and prokaryote respiration in the meso- and bathypelagic zones of the ocean are also reviewed for oligotrophic and productive systems. Values were integrated over a depth layer and are given as the flux or respiration under one square meter (in g/m**2/a) between e.g. 100 m and 1000 m depth.

Method comment:vertical hauls plankton nets: MULTINET. Sampling time: around noon. Maximum depth: 2500m. Net section: 0.5m^2. Mesh size: 300µm.Preservation with buffered formalin (4% final concentration). Stored for at least 12 months before sample selection for stable isotope determinations.Identification and selection of specimens by stereomicroscopeStable isotope determinations by isotope-ratio mass spectrometry coupled to elemental analyzer. Sample size: 1.5±0.7 mg dry weight.Acknowledgements: We acknowledge Elena Rey and Angel F. Lamas for their help in selecting zooplankton specimens. Thanks are also due to all those who contributed to the cruise and sampling during the Malaspina 2010 Expedition, especially the crew of R.V. “Hespérides” and the Unidad de Tecnología Marina technical staff.