Journal article
Effect of nutrient loading on biogeochemical processes in tropical tidal creeks
J Smith, MA Burford, AT Revill, RR Haese, J Fortune
Biogeochemistry | Published : 2012
Abstract
The effect of increased nutrient loads on biogeochemical processes in macrotidal, mangrove-lined creeks was studied in tropical Darwin Harbour, Australia. This study uses an integrative approach involving multiple benthic and pelagic processes as measures of ecosystem function, and provides a comparison of these processes in three tidal creeks receiving different loads of treated sewage effluent. There were significant differences in process rates between Buffalo Creek (BC) (hypereutrophic), which receives the largest sewage loads; Myrmidon Creek (MC) (oligotrophic-mesotrophic) which receives smaller sewage inputs; and Reference Creek (RC) (oligotrophic) which is comparatively pristine. Bent..
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Funding Acknowledgements
We wish to thank the staff from the Aquatic Health Unit at the Northern Territory Department of Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport for assistance with boats and logistics, Emily Saeck, Dominic Valdez, Matt Carey and Craig Smith for assistance with field work and laboratory analysis, Janice Trafford (GA) for MIMS analysis, Ed Czobik (NSW DECC) and Frank Krikowa (UC) for nutrient analysis, Liz Webber (GA) for XRF analysis, Rene Diocares (GU) and Rebecca Esmay (CMAR) for isotope analysis, Lesley Clemenston (CMAR) for chlorophyll analysis and Eric Valentine (CDU) for relevant information. We thank Rhys Leeming (CMAR), Alix Post (GA) and 2 anonymous reviewers whose useful comments substantially improved earlier versions of this manuscript. This project was conducted as part of the Tropical Rivers and Coastal Knowledge (TRaCK) program. TRaCK receives major funding for its research through the Australian Government's Commonwealth Environment Research Facilities initiative; the Australian Government's Raising National Water Standards Program; Land and Water Australia; the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and the Queensland Government's Smart State Innovation Fund. This publication has received permission from the CEO of Geoscience Australia.