Ocean color (CZCS) and passive microwave (SMMR) imageries from the Nimbus 7 satellite are combined with in situ measurements of pigments and sea ice concentration to investigate the dynamic interactions between recession of the pack ice and occurrece of ice edge blooms of phytoplankton in waters of the marginal ice zone. Those interactions were observed in situ from November 7 to December 2, 1983, during a study of the ice edge and via satellite from September 16 through December 17. The ice edge position and phytoplankton biomass obtained from SMMR and CZCS sensors were studied to obtain information on the temporal and spatial patterns of ice and pigment concentrations. A pronounced and presistent phytoplankton biomass maximum was observed in the western portion of the Weddell Sea marginal ice zone which was associated with an open ocean region known to have a reduced surface salinity. An immediately adjacent ice edge region to the east showed little evidence of ice recession, and no bloom was observed in situ or by the CZCS. The two-dimensional relationships among light, ice distribution, and vertical stability as they affect spatial variations in phytoplankton biomass are discussed. The retreat of ice appears to provide an input of significant volumes of meltwater which creates vertical stability for a period necessary to permit growth and accumulation of phytoplankton. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1988