Variability of Dissolved Reactive Phosphate Flux Rates in Nearshore Estuarine Sediments: Effects of Groundwater Flow
Zimmerman CF, Montgomery JR, Carlson PR. 1985. Variability of Dissolved Reactive Phosphate Flux Rates in Nearshore Estuarine Sediments: Effects of Groundwater Flow. Estuaries. 8(2B):228-236
Theoretical diffusive flux rates for dissolved reactive phosphate (DRP) were determined for sediments in a small area of the Indian River, Florida for the period of March-May 1982. Flux rates from the sediment varied from 29 to 70 x 10-6g per m2 per day in seagrass associated sediment to 3-25 x 10-6g per m2 per day for an area devoid of seagrass. Simultaneous measurements of groundwater seepage velocities indicated greater velocities in seagrass associated sediments ( 1.03 x 10-6m per second) than an area devoid of grass ( 0.77 x 10-6m per second). Measured seepage flux accounted for more than 99% of the combined estimated diffusive and seepage flux of DRP for nearshore seagrass sediments. Also noted was an apparent direct relationship between tidal height, DRP and seepage velocity in nearshore sediments ( 25 m from shore) which further demonstrates the importance of hydrogeologic variables to these areas.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Zimmerman, Carl; Montgomery, John; Carlson, Paul
- Units
- CANA
- Keywords
- Aquatic Sciences, Indian River Estuarine System, Seagrass, Sediment