Spatial variability of biogeochemistry in shallow coastal benthic communities of Potter Cove (Antarctica) and the impact of a melting glacier.

ABSTRACT: Measurements of biogeochemical fluxes at the sediment-water interface are essential to investigate organic matter mineralization processes but are rarely performed in shallow coastal areas of the Antarctic. We investigated biogeochemical fluxes across the sediment-water interface in Potter Cove (King George Island/Isla 25 de Mayo) at water depths between 6-9 m. Total fluxes of oxygen and inorganic nutrients were quantified in situ. Diffusive oxygen fluxes were also quantified in situ, while diffusive inorganic nutrient fluxes were calculated from pore water profiles. Biogenic sediment compounds (concentration of pigments, total organic and inorganic carbon and total nitrogen), and benthic prokaryotic, meio-, and macrofauna density and biomass were determined along with abiotic parameters (

SUBMITTER: Hoffmann R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6300201 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature