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On the importance of sediment-water exchange processes of ammonia to primary production in shallow areas of the Sado estuary (Portugal)

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Abstract

Coupling between the seasonal phytoplankton growth cycle and resuspension mechanisms in low depth areas was studied. Tidal flood in an estuarine inlet with a large area of intertidal flats was investigated with respect to nutrients and suspended particulate matter, during two different periods of the year. A prespring bloom period in March and another during the productive summer term in August were picked. Results indicate that tidal resuspension mechanisms are important in mobilizing NH4 + from the sediment surface pool, and that this additional input of the limiting nutrient is rapidly consumed in the flooding water column, in benefit of microphytes resident in the nutrient-poor, incoming,coastal waters.

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Rocha, C., Cabeçadas, G. & Brogueira, M.J. On the importance of sediment-water exchange processes of ammonia to primary production in shallow areas of the Sado estuary (Portugal). Netherlands Journal of Aquatic Ecology 29, 265–273 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02084224

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