Abstract
Net pelagic metabolism (NPM) and net ecosystem metabolism (NEM) were assessed by sigmaCO2 changes in three sampling stations along Piauí River estuary. At the upper estuary station, sampling was carried out over 48 h. Samples exhibited high DIN:DIP ratios. Chlorophyll-a ranged from 0.2 to 2.5 mug.l-1, being higher at the upper estuarine station than marine ones. Net pelagic metabolic rates ranged from -13.2 to 61.2 mgC.m7-2.d-1. Presence of mucilaginous algal material can explain the net mineralization. In the photic period, NPM ranged from-0.05 to 3.04 mgC.m-2h-1. NEM ranged from -7.77 to 6.65 mgC.m-2.d-1. Bottom ressuspension due to microphytobenthic flotation and a high turbidity plume inside de estuary reflected in negative metabolic rates (mineralization). Benthic metabolism was inferred by net system minus pelagic metabolism. Microphytobenthic community seems to be the main responsible for system metabolism, specially in the upper estuary, although the anthropogenic inputs exert strong long term influence.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
