Seasonal variability of the suspended particulate matter concentration in Chupa Inlet of the White Sea

Abstract

Studies of the dynamics of the concentration of the suspended particulate matter (SPM) and Corg in the seawater of Chupa Inlet were performed for the three-year period of 2010–2012. In general, the concentration of SPM increased from the spring through the summer, decreased through the autumn period, and declined dramatically in the winter. The ratio of the organic matter in the SPM decreased gradually from the surface water layer to the bottom and averaged 61%. The abiotic factors affecting the SPM concentration and suspended organic matter were studied; the water temperature and tide events were named as the liming ones.