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Hydrological, geomorphological, physicochemical and biological factors influence the nursery function of estuaries. Our study compared the environmental conditions and the assemblages of early life stages of fish in the main four estuaries of the Gulf of Cadiz (Cadiz Bay, Guadalquivir, Odiel-Tinto and Guadiana). Samples were taken within each estuary and on their adjacent coast, during the dry-warm seasons of 2016, 2017 and 2018. Results showed that rivers with smaller basins had a very low freshwater input and their estuaries, Odiel-Tinto and Cadiz Bay, were essentially sea extensions into the land, containing similar physicochemical conditions to nearshore zones, as well as similar assemblages and densities of early life stages of fish. Open water masses of these estuaries do not have important nursery functions. In contrast, inner zones of estuaries with bigger basins and higher freshwater discharges, Guadalquivir and Guadiana, have different environmental characteristics and a long transition zone with a well-defined salinity gradient. Their assemblages and densities of early life stages of fish were different between them and with other estuaries. The Guadalquivir estuary held the highest abundance of larval and early juvenile fish, as well as macrozooplankton biomass. The most abundant fish species in all zones of every estuary was the anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus; the Guadalquivir inner zone had the highest density. High concentration of suspended organic matter, provided by freshwater input and correlated with total suspended solid, suspended inorganic matter and turbidity, was the physicochemical characteristic more typical of the Guadalquivir. This characteristic, in addition to the salinity gradient, could explain the highest densities of macrozooplankton found in this estuary, and consequently, of early fish stages. Recurrent jellyfish blooms were observed in Cadiz Bay and the inner zone of Guadiana, affecting their nursery functions. Odiel-Tinto showed altered physicochemical and biological characteristics, which may need further specific research., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Transport and fate of phytoplankton blooms and excessive nutrients along salinity and turbidity gradients of a river-estuary continuum could determine when and where impaired water quality occurs. However, the general spatiotemporal patterns, underlying mechanisms and their implication for water quality management are not well understood. This study reveals typical seasonal variations and longitudinal patterns of phytoplankton, dissolved oxygen (DO) and nutrients (C, N, and P) in the lower St. Johns River estuary in Florida based on 23 years of data and a model which spans 3 years. Evident declines in freshwater phytoplankton and DO concentrations were observed in the freshwater-saltwater transition zone and the estuarine turbidity maxima along the river-estuary continuum. Observations show that most cyanobacteria blooms originating from upstream lakes collapsed in the freshwater-saltwater transition zone where salinity was greater than 1 ppt, but data analysis and model simulation both indicate salinity stress was not the sole reason, other factors such as changes in hydrodynamics and river morphology also contributed to the bloom crashes. Inorganic nutrients (ammonium, nitrate, and phosphate) exhibited inverse longitudinal patterns with phytoplankton. Due to algal uptake, summer concentrations of inorganic nutrients were low in the freshwater, but substantially elevated in the marine reach as a result of large point source inputs and nutrient regeneration from organic detritus. However, because of strong river-ocean mixing, the dramatic increase in nutrients did not promote a phytoplankton bloom in the local marine reach. The nutrients were eventually transported into coastal waters or oceans where they fueled phytoplankton blooms. Our findings highlight that strategies for nutrient reduction and phytoplankton bloom management should be developed beyond local reaches and across a river-estuary-ocean continuum, exploring the possibility that freshwater phytoplankton blooms and excessive nutrients may be transported to downstream estuaries, coastal waters and even oceans that are vulnerable to poor water quality., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None declared., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Mangroves can be considered as biogeochemical reactors along (sub)tropical coastlines, acting both as sinks or sources for trace metals depending on environmental factors. In this study, we characterized the role of a mangrove estuary, developing downstream a densely populated megacity (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam), on the fate and partitioning of trace metals. Surface water and suspended particulate matter were collected at four sites along the estuarine salinity gradient during 24 h cycling in dry and rainy seasons. Salinity, pH, DO, TSS, POC, DOC, dissolved and particulate Fe, Mn, Cr, As, Cu, Ni, Co and Pb were measured. TSS was the main trace metals carrier during their transit in the estuary. However, TSS variations did not explain the whole variability of metals distribution. Mn, Cr and As were highly reactive metals while the other metals (Fe, Ni, Cu, Co and Pb) presented stable log K D values along the estuary. Organic matter dynamic appeared to play a key role in metals fractioning. Its decomposition during water transit in the estuary induced metal desorption, especially for Cr and As. Conversely, dissolved Mn concentrations decreased along the estuary, which was suggested to result from Mn oxidative precipitation onto solid phase due to oxidation and pH changes. Extra sources as pore-water release, runoff from adjacent soils, or aquaculture effluents were suggested to be involved in trace metal dynamic in this estuary. In addition, the monsoon increased metal loads, notably dissolved and particulate Fe, Cr, Ni and Pb., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Although estuarine tidal marshes are important contributors to the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, the relationship between carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), methane (CH 4 ) emission, and environmental factors, with respect to estuarine marshes, has not been clarified thoroughly. This study investigated the crucial factors controlling the emission of CO 2 and CH 4 from a freshwater marsh and a brackish marsh located in a subtropical estuary in southeastern China, as well as their magnitude. The duration of the study period was November 2013 to October 2014. Relevant to both the field and incubation experiments, the CO 2 and CH 4 emissions from the two marshes showed pronounced seasonal variations. The CO 2 and CH 4 emissions from both marshes demonstrated significant positive correlations with the air/soil temperature (p<0.01), but negative correlations with the soil electrical conductivity and the pore water/tide water Cl - and SO 4 2- (p<0.01). The results indicate no significant difference in the CO 2 emissions between the freshwater and brackish marshes in the subtropical estuary, whereas there was a difference in the CH 4 emissions between the two sites (p<0.01). Although future sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion could reduce the CH 4 emissions from the estuarine freshwater marshes, these factors had little effect on the CO 2 emissions with respect to an increase in salinity of less than 5‰. The findings of this study could have important implications for estimating the global warming contributions of estuarine marshes along differing salinity gradients., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Archaea are widespread in marine sediments, but their occurrence and relationship with natural salinity gradients in estuarine sediments is not well understood. This study investigated the abundance and diversity of Archaea in sediments at three sites [Brightlingsea (BR), Alresford (AR) and Hythe (HY)] along the Colne Estuary, using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) of 16S rRNA genes, DNA hybridization, Archaea 16S rRNA and mcrA gene phylogenetic analyses. Total archaeal 16S rRNA abundance in sediments were higher in the low-salinity brackish sediments from HY (2-8 × 10(7) 16S rRNA gene copies cm(-3)) than the high-salinity marine sites from BR and AR (2 × 10(4)-2 × 10(7) and 4 × 10(6)-2 × 10(7) 16S rRNA gene copies cm(-3), respectively), although as a proportion of the total prokaryotes Archaea were higher at BR than at AR or HY. Phylogenetic analysis showed that members of the 'Bathyarchaeota' (MCG), Thaumarchaeota and methanogenic Euryarchaeota were the dominant groups of Archaea. The composition of Thaumarchaeota varied with salinity, as only 'marine' group I.1a was present in marine sediments (BR). Methanogen 16S rRNA genes from low-salinity sediments at HY were dominated by acetotrophic Methanosaeta and putatively hydrogentrophic Methanomicrobiales, whereas the marine site (BR) was dominated by mcrA genes belonging to methylotrophic Methanococcoides, versatile Methanosarcina and methanotrophic ANME-2a. Overall, the results indicate that salinity and associated factors play a role in controlling diversity and distribution of Archaea in estuarine sediments., (© The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Federation of European Microbiological Society.)

Estuaries are often observed as the boundary between the ocean and the river, separating coastal environments, rather than being seen as a continuum. Owing to insufficient research on demersal fish communities across nearshore marine to estuarine habitats, particularly in South Africa, this study employed a spatial seascape approach, with seasonal sampling of soft-bottom benthic habitats in two permanently open estuaries and the adjacent marine nearshore environment of Algoa Bay on the south coast of South Africa. A total of 790 fish representing 29 species were collected in the marine nearshore, and 6 414 fish (28 species) were caught in the estuarine zone. Two discrete demersal fish assemblages were identified as representing the marine nearshore and estuarine environments. The marine nearshore fish assemblages were dominated by marine species (e.g. Argyrosomus inodorus and Cynoglossus zanzibarensis) that were not recorded in the estuarine environment, whereas marine estuarine-opportunist species (e.g. Pomadasys olivaceus and Galeichthys feliceps) were more abundant in the marine nearshore than in the estuarine environment. The estuaries were dominated by benthic marine estuarine-dependent and marine and estuarine species (e.g. Rhabdosargus holubi, Solea turbynei, Heteromycteris capensis, Psammogobius knysnaensis and Glossogobius callidus). Differences observed in abundance and species richness along the estuarine to marine continuum were primarily related to the salinity gradient. These findings are significant as altered freshwater flows and consequent changes in salinity and productivity can have an impact on the nursery use of both estuaries and the marine nearshore by fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal environments are at the frontline of sea-level rise effects, and seawater intrusion constitutes one of the most important causes of salinization, changing the ecological patterns. Hence, we hypothesized that seawater intrusion would alter environmental gradients, causing either abrupt or gradual changes in the phytoplankton of Itapecuru River estuary. Physical and chemical and biological variables were collected bimonthly at six sites between 2019 and 2020. Seventy-six phytoplankton indicators were selected based on their specific functional traits and indicator value. Polymyxus coronalis was a good indicator of the limit of seawater intrusion. Multivariate analyses revealed high species dispersion among the estuarine sectors governed by variations in salinity, suspended particulate matter, cell size, and silicate. The distribution of freshwater species in the upper sector was correlated with low nutrient values and salinity. The marine species were transported between the middle and lower sectors under the opposite conditions. The seawater intrusion negatively affected the community, primarily in the dry season when the displacement of the turbidity maximum zone estuarine altered the structure, reducing its density, diversity, and biomass. The present study generated important information about seawater intrusion effects on the spatiotemporal variation in the phytoplankton community and provided a tool for the sustainable management of tropical estuaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace metals act as a limiting nutrient and prerequisite for primary productivity in marine environments. The distribution of metals in dissolved phase along the salinity gradients of Swarna, Sharavati and Kali estuaries in southwestern India, during post and pre-monsoon seasons, were studied. We have investigated the behaviour of trace metals in the estuarine environment and their extent of impact on human health and ecosystem. The study revealed, non-conservative behaviour of dissolved Mn, Fe, Ni, Cd and Co in the estuaries. Whereas Cu behaved non-conservatively in post-monsoon and conservatively in pre-monsoon seasons. Risk assessment studies revealed that higher chronic daily intake (CDI) in humans, through dermal pathway, in Swarna and Sharavati estuaries during post-monsoon, whereas it was during pre-monsoon season in the Kali estuary. Hazard Index values for the studied metals in adults and children are below risk thresholds, though children are more prone to health risk through the dermal pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the extensive and rapidly growing literature on microplastics in oceans and coastal seas, little information exists on microplastic distribution through the salinity gradient. This study is the first one to evaluate microplastic distribution through the salinity gradient of a highly stratified estuary. A total of 910 microplastic particles were collected from 12 different sampling events in the Krka River estuary, Croatia. The number of detected particles ranged from 389 in the surface layer to 63 in the deepest marine layer. The highest plastic abundance was found in the surface layer (3.68 particles/m3) and the lowest in the marine layer (0.13 particles/m3). The measured values of the cross-sectional area indicated an ellipsoidal cross-sectional shape of the particles. It was also found that the majority of microplastic particles belonged to the small microplastic class (<1 mm). The Nile Red (NR) staining method was used to visualize fluorescent microplastic particles, while quantification was performed using ImageJ/Fiji software. The strong salinity stratification in the studied estuary did not alter the usual distribution of microplastic particles in the water column, and there was no significant accumulation on the halocline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variability of fish assemblage structure with respect to seasonality in salinity and productivity remains to be elucidate to many Neotropical estuaries. In this study, we hypothesized that salinity gradient and a set of variables related to ecosystem productivity drive community parameters in the shallow-water fish assemblage of the north-south axis of the Paranaguá Estuarine Complex (Southern Brazilian coast). Samples were taken with beach seine monthly from May 2000 to April 2001. Supporting our hypothesis, richness and abundance increased with turbidity, warmer waters of the rainier summer seasons, which are more productive. This environmental setting favors reproduction, as well as juvenile recruitment and growth, whose intensities are highest in this period. Highest abundance was found in inner areas, which may be explained by greater food and habitat availability. Richness was higher in more saline waters, due to the proximity of the rich pool of marine fish species. We suggest that local human interventions (e.g., dredging) should be avoided during the rainy seasons that are critical for species life cycles. Salinization, low estuarine productivity, and warmer waters, which are expected with climate change and human impacts in the local watershed, could affect the integrity of the local fish assemblage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneity of soil salinity is a prominent environmental characteristic in the intertidal zone of estuaries, affecting the plant growth and the shift of biotic interactions in the salt marsh. This study aims to examine the interactive effects of a salinity gradient and salinity fluctuations on intraspecific interactions of a euhalophyte. We assessed the impact of daily fluctuating salinity on the outcome of intraspecific interactions by cultivating seeds of Suaeda salsa (Chenopodiaceae) in river sand. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with three treatments: daily salinity fluctuations (static and fluctuating salinity), a salinity gradient (200 and 400 mmol L−1) and three planting densities (1, 2 and 4 plants/pot). First, height and biomass of plants were measured at both the start and end of the experiment. Then, the growth indexes and log response ratio of S. salsa were analyzed. The outcome of intraspecific interactions of S. salsa shifted from competition in low salinity to facilitation in high salinity, and high conspecific density strengthened the competition and facilitation intensities. Daily salinity fluctuation did not significantly affect the plant growth and the outcome of intraspecific interactions, but did have a significant influence on belowground biomass. Our results suggest that the stress-gradient hypothesis may apply to predicting the variation of the intraspecific relationship of a salt-tolerant species along a salinity gradient, and the magnitude of this variation is density dependent. These findings help us understand how individuals and populations of a euhalophyte species respond to the natural variation or human modification of salinity conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuaries are amongst the most productive ecosystems worldwide and provide nursery habitat for fish species of marine and freshwater origin; however, the distribution and community structure of fishes within freshwater-dominated coastal system is limited. This study presents an overview of the temporal and spatial patterns in the abundance, diversity and distribution of fishes along a river-estuarine continuum and compared them to other southern African estuaries. A total of 30 species belonging to 16 families were recorded in the Orange River Estuary (ORE) comprised mostly of freshwater (47%), marine (33%) and estuarine fishes (20%). Chelon richardsonii (marine estuarine-opportunist) and Gilchristella aestuaria (solely estuarine) were the numerically dominant species in the estuary with 63% and 20% of catches, respectively. The two species utilise a broad salinity range (0.l–34.9 PSU). Also, C. richardsonii dominated catches in the river section with 52% followed by Labeobarbus aeneus (freshwater straggler) and Pseudocrenilabrus philander (freshwater estuarine-opportunist) with 15% and 9%, respectively. Species diversity and catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) revealed seasonal variation in fish assemblages during the high-flow and low-flow season but not inter-annually. This highlights the continuity in fish assemblages utilising the ORE. High catches (dominated by C. richardsonii) but low species diversity observed close to the mouth of the estuary agree with the biogeographical trend of decreasing species richness from east to west on the South African coast. In comparison with other estuaries, the ORE is freshwater dominated, whilst the Berg and Olifants estuaries are dominated by marine taxa but with similar richness values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated spatial, short-term, and decadal-scale variability in the summer ichthyoplankton assemblages within the North Inlet-Winyah Bay estuarine system, Georgetown County, South Carolina, USA. Ichthyoplankton were collected weekly from late May to early September 2016 on nighttime flood tides using a 1-m diameter, 1-mm mesh plankton net at three sites of varying salinity and proximity to inlets. Nearly 30,000 fishes representing 59 taxa were collected from all three sites over the 14-week study period. Gobiidae and Anchoa spp. dominated the overall community, composing between 69 and 94% of the total catch at each of the three sites. Weekly densities of all taxa combined did not vary between sites, yet diversity metrics (richness, evenness, Shannon-Weiner index, and Simpson's index) were greatest at the highest salinity site, and overall assemblage composition significantly varied among sites. Non-metric multidimensional scaling suggested a shift in the assemblage at all sites corresponding to an increase in water temperature throughout the summer. Differences in family-level assemblage composition between this study and previous work from the 1980s were detected, differences which may be indicative of regional-scale environmental change. Overall, the summer ichthyoplankton assemblages resembled those from other estuaries along the southeastern US Atlantic coast and temperate regions worldwide, generally dominated by a few taxa and composed of a mixture of estuarine-, estuarine and nearshore-, and continental shelf-spawning taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of exchange flow and its variations is important, because it determines the distribution of salt, nutrient, pollutant, and suspended sediment in estuaries. Although exchange flow has been studied extensively, their variations over the spring–neap tidal cycle remain unclear. Many studies have indicated that the exchange flow is weaker during spring tides than neap tides, but others have reported that it might be stronger during spring tides. Therefore, we investigated the spring–neap variation of an exchange flow and its cause based on intensive observational data and an analytical model applied to the Sumjin River estuary (SRE), Korea. The observations revealed that exchange flow increased during the spring tide but decreased during the neap tide. The horizontal salinity gradient increased about seven times more during spring tide than during neap tide in the middle of the estuary. The analytical model implied that the exchange flow in the SRE is mainly driven by the horizontal salinity gradient. The large horizontal salinity gradient and tidal current amplitude ratio in the SRE between the spring and neap tides suggests that the horizontal pressure gradient driven by the salinity gradient overwhelms vertical mixing in driving exchange flow in the SRE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Mandovi Estuary, located along the tropical west coast of India, transforms from being a freshwater-dominated body during the monsoon season to a tide-dominated system during post-monsoon season, with a salinity gradient developing from the freshwater end to the estuarine mouth (∼0–33). The sulphate reduction (SR) rates were measured by the 35SO 4 2− radiotracer method in the estuarine sediments at three different sites. The porewater H 2 S concentrations were negligible at all the sites and SR rates did not exhibit any clear trend along the salinity gradient. Pyrite content (3.45–12.9 mg g−1) was the highest at the marine end and decreased towards the freshwater end. The SR rate (15.71 mmol m−2 d−1) and total Fe content (14–20%) were highest in sediments of mid-estuary with intermediate salinity and variable porosity. Organic carbon (OC) mineralization rate through SR also did not show any trend along the salinity gradient with intermediate salinity site having higher values (31.83 mmol C m2 d−1) compared to other sites (3.12–8.62 mmol C m2 d−1). SR was responsible for ∼8–50% of sedimentary OC mineralization implying that OC mineralization through Fe (III) and Mn (IV) reduction possibly played major role owing to their high concentrations in the estuarine sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates effects of three different types of freshet events (varying in intensity, duration, and period of discharge) on the early life stages of fish, macroinvertebrates inhabiting in the water column, and the environmental conditions within the hiperturbid estuary of the Guadalquivir River. Freshet events compressed the salinity gradient and increased turbidity; during the most intense freshet event, the oxygen concentration also decreased. These environmental changes had significant effects on the abundance and distribution of aquatic organisms, reducing the nursery area from 40 km upstream to 20 or 10 km, depending on the freshet. Recovery of physicochemical conditions was relatively rapid (within one or two weeks) for less intense freshets, while the most intense event showed only partial recovery even one month later. Biological responses varied among species and time periods. Pelagic species (e.g., anchovies) were flushed out of the estuary. The populations of these species can show a posterior reintroduction and a recovery to levels similar to before the freshet, or a nonrecovery, probably depending on larval supplied from the offshore stock. In contrast, benthic and estuarine species (e.g., gobies, mysids), were just displaced downstream during the freshets. In the most intense freshet event, which occurred before the high recruitment period of these species (early spring), their abundances increased significantly, exceeding the levels of normal years (without freshets). This suggests that, depending on the intensity and the period in which the freshet occur, they could act as attraction signals for certain species. In general, estuarine and benthic species, such as gobies and other macroinvertebrates, coped better with freshets than pelagic marine migrant species, such as anchovies. However, the estuary and its estuarine organisms showed high resilience to environmental fluctuations. • Freshets can compress salinity gradient, increase turbidity and decrease oxygen. • The shift in physicochemical conditions reduces the nursery area. • Individuals can be flushed out, predated or hide in refuge areas during freshets. • The benthic-estuarine species seem to better cope with freshets. • Some species showed an attraction effect due to the extent of estuarine cues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is a major component of the organic matter pool, playing a key role in the global ocean functioning. However, studies on DOM in waters of many ocean regions, such as the Gulf of Cadiz (GoC), are poorly known. Advanced aquatic sensors enable autonomous for long-term deployments in situ collection of high frequency DOM data using fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) as a proxy. The present study evaluates the relevance of FDOM, the estuarine influence and the environmental factors that determine its spatial distribution in the GoC. Our results suggest that the GoC water mass, under the estuarine influence of three main rivers, is receiving large amounts of DOM transported mainly by Guadalquivir and Guadiana rivers and much less from Tinto-Odiel. Salinity is the main factor explaining the FDOM variability within the Guadalquivir and Guadiana rivers and in the inner shelf of the GoC. In the outer shelf of the GoC, plankton-produced DOM could explain the persistent spatial pattern of FDOM, playing an important role in the dynamics of FDOM from the North area of the GoC through the persistent low-salinity Eastern North Atlantic Central Water. The oceanographic dynamics and the spatial pattern of FDOM concentration in the continental shelf of the GoC suggest a net transport of FDOM through the GCC (Gulf of Cadiz Current) to the Mediterranean Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River systems worldwide have been modified for human use and the downstream ecological consequences are often poorly understood. In the Colorado River estuary, where upstream water diversions have limited freshwater input during the last century, mollusc remains from the last several hundred years suggest widespread ecological change. The once abundant clam Mulinia modesta has undergone population declines of approximately 94% and populations of predators relying on this species as a food source have probably declined, switched to alternative prey species or both. We distinguish between the first two hypotheses using a null model of predation preference to test whether M. modesta was preyed upon selectively by the naticid snail, Neverita reclusiana, along the estuary's past salinity gradient. To evaluate the third hypothesis, we estimate available prey biomass today and in the past, assuming prey were a limiting resource. Data on the frequency of drill holes--identifiable traces of naticid predation on prey shells--showed several species, including M. modesta, were preferred prey. Neverita reclusiana was probably able to switch prey. Available prey biomass also declined, suggesting the N. reclusiana population probably also declined. These results indicate a substantial change to the structure of the benthic food web. Given the global scale of water management, such changes have probably also occurred in many of the world's estuaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuarine tidal marshes provide favorable conditions for nitrous oxide (N 2 O) production. Saltwater intrusion caused by sea-level rise would exert complex effects on the production and emission of N 2 O in estuarine tidal marshes; however, few studies have been conducted on its effects on N 2 O emissions. Salinity gradients are a common occurrence in estuarine tidal marshes. Studies on production and emission of N 2 O in tidal marshes with different salinities may elucidate the impact of saltwater intrusion on the emission of greenhouse gases. This study explores the seasonal variations of N 2 O fluxes and soil denitrification rates in freshwater (Daoqingzhou wetland) and brackish (Shanyutan wetland) tidal marshes dominated by Cyperus malaccensis var. brevifolius (shichito matgrass) in the Min River estuary, southeastern China. N 2 O fluxes in both marshes showed strong temporal variability. The highest N 2 O fluxes were observed in the hot and wet summer months, whereas the lowest fluxes were observed in the cold winter and autumn months. N 2 O fluxes from the freshwater marsh (48.81 ± 9.01 μg m − 2 h − 1 ) were significantly higher ( p < 0.05) than those from the brackish-water marsh (27.69 ± 4.01 μg m − 2 h − 1 ). Soil denitrification rates showed a similar temporal pattern, with the highest rates observed in summer and the lowest in winter. Similarly, soil denitrification rates were significantly higher ( p < 0.05) in the freshwater marsh (32.72 ± 19.15 μmol N m − 2 h − 1 ) than in the brackish-water marsh (4.97 ± 2.64 μmol N m − 2 h − 1 ). Temperature and the salinity, sulfate (SO 4 2 − ), and ammonia nitrogen (NH 4 + -N) concentrations of the overlying water were key factors affecting soil denitrification rates. N 2 O fluxes and soil denitrification rates demonstrated negative correlations with salinity and SO 4 2 − concentrations in both marshes. The results indicate that increased seawater intrusion would reduce N 2 O emissions from estuarine tidal wetlands and exert a negative feedback on the climate system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the taxonomic composition of the bacteria and phytoplankton communities in the Pearl River Estuary (PRE) through Illumina sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the 16 S rRNA gene. Furthermore, their relationships as well as recorded environmental variables were explored by co-occurrence networks. Bacterial community composition was different in two size fractions, as well as along the salinity gradient across two seasons. Free-living (FL) communities were dominated by pico-sized Cyanobacteria (Synechococcus CC9902) while Exiguobacterium , Halomonas and Pseudomonas were predominantly associated with particle-associated (PA) lifestyle, and Cyanobium PCC-6307 exhibited seasonal shifts in lifestyles in different seasons. In wet season, bacterial community composition was characterized by abundance of Cyanobacteria , Actinobacteria , and Bacteroidetes , which were tightly linked with high riverine inflow. While in dry season, Proteobacteria increased in prevalence, especially for Psychrobacter , NOR5/OM60 clade and Pseudomonas , which were thrived in lower water temperature and higher salinity. Moreover, we discovered that differences between PA and FL composition were more significant in the wet season than in the dry season, which may be due to better nutritional conditions of particles (indicated by POC%) in the wet season and then attract more diverse PA populations. Based on the analysis of plastidial 16 S rRNA genes, abundant small-sized mixotrophic phytoplankton (Dinophyceae , Euglenida and Haptophyta) were identified in the PRE. The complexity of co-occurrence network increased from FL to PA fractions in both seasons, which suggested that suspended particles can provide ecological niches for particle-associated colonizers contributing to the maintenance of a more stable community structure. In addition, the majority of phytoplankton species exhibited positive co-occurrences with both other phytoplankton species and bacterial counterparts, indicating the mutual cooperation between phytoplankton assemblages and specific bacterial populations e likely benefited from phytoplankton-derived organic compounds. This study enhances our understanding of the seasonal and spatial dynamics of bacterial communities and their potential relationship with phytoplankton assembly in estuarine waters. [Display omitted] • We investigated structure of the bacteria and phytoplankton community in the PRE. • Bacterial composition was distinct for size fraction along the salinity gradient. • PA and FL composition were more distinct in wet season than in dry season. • Most phytoplankton species had positive co-occurrences with bacterial counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuaries are environments where freshwater and seawater mix and they display various salinity profiles. The construction of river barrages and dams has rapidly changed these environments and has had a wide range of impacts on plankton communities. To understand the dynamics of such communities, researchers need accurate and rapid techniques for detecting plankton species. We evaluated the diversity of eukaryotic plankton over a salinity gradient by applying a metagenomics tool at the Nakdong River estuary in Korea. Environmental samples were collected on three dates during summer and autumn of 2011 at the Eulsukdo Bridge at the mouth of that river. Amplifying the 18S rDNA allowed us to analyze 456 clones and 122 phylotypes. Metagenomic sequences revealed various taxonomic groups and cryptic genetic variations at the intra- and inter-specific levels. By analyzing the same station at each sampling date, we observed that the phylotypes presented a salinity-related pattern of diversity in assemblages. The variety of species within freshwater samples reflected the rapid environmental changes caused by freshwater inputs. Dinophyceae phylotypes accounted for the highest proportion of overall diversity in the seawater samples. Euryhaline diatoms and dinoflagellates were observed in the freshwater, brackish and seawater samples. The biological data for species composition demonstrate the transitional state between freshwater and seawater. Therefore, this metagenomics information can serve as a biological indicator for tracking changes in aquatic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the first description of benthic foraminiferal assemblages in the Gironde estuary (France) with a particular emphasis on the non-indigenous species Ammonia confertitesta. Four stations along the salinity gradient were monthly sampled for sediment and faunal parameters from September 2018 to December 2019. Ammonia confertitesta , Haynesina germanica , Ammonia aberdoveyensis , Ammonia veneta and Elphidium oceanense were the main species occurring at the four sampled stations. The distributions of the main foraminifera species in the Gironde estuary were majorly driven by the distance to the sea and sediment surface-chlorophyll- a. Total Organic Carbon, Total Nitrogen and Carbon:Nitrogen ratio had a minor influence. This study is the first to describe ecological preferences of the three congeneric Ammonia species, still often generically pooled as A. tepida in the literature, by discriminating them using a stereomicroscope. The non-indigenous species A. confertitesta , noticeably outcompetes the indigenous foraminiferal species along the whole estuary. The presence of the commercial harbour of Bordeaux in the Gironde estuary suggests that it may have been introduced by mean of ballast waters. High abundances compared to those of other indigenous Ammonia species found in the Gironde estuary may also suggest that A. confertitesta has a real potential of invasiveness when environmental conditions are suitable. [Display omitted] • Ammonia confertitesta dominated in space and time estuarine species assemblages. • The distance to the sea mainly drove species assemblages of the Gironde estuary. • Harbour of Bordeaux could explain of the presence of the Asiatic A. confertitesta. • Outcompetition of indigenous species questions about A. confertitesta invasiveness. • Indigenous Ammonia aberdoveyensis might have found a refuge at lower salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benthic macrofaunal communities along an estuarine gradient of a macrotidal estuary of the Jiaojiang River, China were analyzed to reveal spatial variations in those communities and their relationships with environmental variables. Benthic macrofauna were collected from 15 sampling stations in May and October 2010. Polychaetes and Mollusks are the dominant taxonomic groups. The species richness, density and Shannon diversity index generally tended to increase as one moved away from shore toward the outer stations of the estuary. Cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling ordinations indicated the presence of three distinct zones of macrofaunal communities in the estuary. Multivariate analyses showed a strong relationship exists between the macrofaunal communities and the environmental parameters in the Jiaojiang River estuary. Aside from salinity, dissolved inorganic nitrogen and soluble reactive phosphate contents were also the major factor affecting the structure of the macrofaunal communities. The results demonstrated the important effects of nutrient-load on the distributional patterns of benthic macrofaunal communities in nutrient-rich estuaries. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Estuaries are important interfaces between land and ocean, in which the input of trace metals into the ocean via the rivers is often significantly modified along the mixing gradient between freshwater and seawater. In the present study we have carried out mixing experiments using river water from the Rhine, the Elbe and the Weser and seawater from the North Sea with the aim of gaining more insights into the behavior of titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), vanadium (V) and molybdenum (Mo) and their distribution between dissolved and particulate forms during mixing in the estuaries. Little is known about the modification of their concentrations in estuaries and these metals increasingly enter the rivers and the ocean due to their application as so-called high-tech metals in industrial activities. Such laboratory experiments at controlled conditions allow the systematic investigation of chemical changes related to the mixing ratios, independent of further influence factors occurring in natural systems. Adsorptive stripping voltammetry was used for the analytical determination of the four metals. Although our data largely confirmed a strong particle-reactive behavior of Ti and Zr and a mostly conservative behavior of Mo, our mixing experiments revealed partial deviation from this behavior. Vanadium mostly does not follow a strict conservative mixing trend but shows both small ad- and desorption effects along the salinity transect. Also Mo shows some deviations from conservative mixing at mid-salinities. The enrichment of dissolved Ti and Zr at about 50:50 river: seawater mixtures agrees with recently published data of similar field studies and appears to be a systematic effect possibly related to charge transitions on particle surfaces or change of the dissolved metal speciation. The observed effects partly differed in experiments with filtered and non-filtered river water samples, especially for Ti and Zr, highlighting the role of riverine particulate matter for the modification of dissolved trace metal fluxes in estuaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the spatial and temporal distribution pattern of three marine mysids (Chlamydopleon dissimile, Metamysidopsis elongata atlantica and Mysidopsis coelhoi) from the Cananeia-Iguape Coastal System, southeast Brazil, in relation to environmental variables and zooplankton abundance. We also analysed mysid reproductive traits, and tested their tolerance to salinity gradients in laboratory experiments. Salinity was identified as a major factor influencing mysid spatial and temporal distribution, selectively limiting their distribution within the estuary. Chlamydopleon dissimile and M. coelhoi were common, but occurred at low abundances throughout the year, whereas the numerically dominant M. elongata atlantica had abundance peaks in spring, when thermohaline conditions were more favourable. Mysid brood size varied interspecifically; the occurrence of juveniles throughout the year indicated that mysids breed continuously in the region. The high biomass of M. elongata atlantica observed in spring confirms the importance of mysids in coastal regions' food webs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to investigate the response of pelagic zooplankton to different levels of abiotic multi-stressors in the North Atlantic coast, taking advantage of the comparison of the communities of two adjacent estuaries with different levels of historical pollution (estuaries of Minho and Lima Rivers). The zooplankton community structure, composition and temporal variation were comparatively investigated for 15 months, using different net meshes. Several abiotic factors were measured in situ and water samples were simultaneously collected for determination of nutrients and chlorophyll a . The overall results revealed a diverse community represented by species that have been found in subtropical and temperate zones. Although the highest diversity was observed in the Lima estuary, supported by higher contributions of marine taxa , the total zooplankton biomass was found to be significantly higher in the Minho estuary. The salinity gradient differences between estuaries, associated to significant differences in water nutrients levels, were found to be the main forcing factors affecting micro and mesozooplankton. Considering the importance of the impacts resulting from abiotic variation on the basis of aquatic food webs, the present investigation represented a case-study, based in two contrasting estuaries, one strongly influenced by freshwater discharges (Minho estuary) and the other with higher salinity levels (Lima estuary), contributing to a better understanding of the effects of multi-stressors on pelagic zooplankton communities, providing useful information for studies related with climate change impacts, biogeography, conservation and providing data contributing to the improvement of pelagic fisheries management models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoplankton assemblage and chlorophyll a along the salinity gradient and oxygen zonation were studied in Ulhas Estuary. Oxic condition exist in euhaline region of the estuary that receives oxygenated coastal waters, while, poly-meso-oligohaline region is hypoxic due to the accumulation of voluminous amount of pollutants from industrial effluents, domestic/sewage and agricultural discharges. Additionally, anthropogenically generated nutrients enhanced phytoplankton biomass (chlorophyll a) and their senescence also led to hypoxia. The dominance of diatoms (>70%) was observed in the euhaline-oxic region, while a tremendous decrease in their contribution (18%) was observed in the oligohaline region. Meso to oligohaline region of the estuary is governed by cyanophytes and chlorophytes due to their affinity towards low salinity and high dissolved inorganic nutrients. Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI) further substantiated the estuary as eutrophic. Additionally, the study could identify the adaptation of cyanophytes and chlorophytes in oxygen deficient water. [Display omitted] • Hypoxia occurs in the upper part of the estuary with decreasing salinity <28 and high nutrient discharges. • Chlorophyll a and phytoplankton abundance are likewise highest in the upper part of the estuary. • Phytoplankton species composition is shifting along the observed salinity-dissolved oxygen gradient. • Phytoplankton species which are organic pollutant indicators are encountered. • Based on the Trophic State Index, upper parts of the Ulhas Estuary are eutrophic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The kinetics of Cu, Cd and Pb accumulation by the macroalga, Fucus ceranoides, was studied under simulated estuarine conditions. Accumulation of Cu and Pb proceeded via a pseudo-first-order reaction that was reversible, suggesting desorption or efflux of accumulated metal, with forward rate constants on the order of 0.1 h−1. For both metals, reaction reversibility increased and the equilibrium constant decreased with increasing salinity (from 1 to 33.5) and system response times were <10 h throughout. Accumulation of Cd proceeded via a first-order reaction that was irreversible, suggesting little desorption or efflux of metal, with rate constants that decreased with increasing salinity (from 0.023 to 0.015 h−1) and reaction half-lives ranging from approximately 30–50 h. Inorganic equilibrium speciation calculations suggest that interactions of Cu, Cd and Pb principally involve the respective free ions, but that additional ions (e.g. CdCl+) and biotic processes may also be significant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Eleven years of monthly water chemistry data collected by volunteers from 18 stations in Choctawhatchee Bay, FL were examined to determine temporal (annual and seasonal) and spatial variation. A nested variance component analysis showed that spatial and seasonal variance in phosphorus, nitrogen and chlorophyll was considerable with station accounting for 49%, 41%, and 23%, respectively and month within year and station accounting for 23%, 9% and 50%, respectively. Plotting salinity, nutrients and chlorophyll versus longitude showed a continual gradient from Choctawhatchee River to the East Pass. This gradient indicated an inflection point at approximately Longitude -86.30 where a large change in depth occurred. Data east of the inflection point showed a rapid change and west a much slower change. Years with the highest river discharge showed the highest nutrients and chlorophyll concentrations. Multivariate linear models using longitude and river discharge as independent variables were constructed that can be used to predict total phosphorus, total nitrogen and chlorophyll and these models accountedjor 83%, 79%, and 50% of the variance in the data, respectively. These models take into account both spatial and temporal variability and should be useful in estimating water chemistry for the bay. Without the resources provided by citizen scientists it is unlikely that these data would have been available to develop predictive models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The decomposition rates of Phragmites australis and Fucus vesiculosus were experimentally determined in an estuarine system using the leaf-bag technique. The study was conducted in fifteen sites arranged in five areas, extending from freshwater, outside the tidal range, to the marine environment, near the mouth of the estuary. The leaf-bags (5 mm mesh), were set up with 3.0 g of dried substrate, submerged in the experimental sites at day 0 and collected at days 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60, to follow biomass loss. The biomass loss through the leaching phase (day 3) was about 16% for Phragmites australis and 33% for Fucus vesiculosus and was independent of salinity for both substrates. The difference in the remaining biomass between the two species increased with time and the decomposition rates differed along the salinity gradient. For F. vesiculosus, the decomposition rate was highest near the mouth of the estuary, corresponding to the preferential distribution area of the algae, and decreased towards freshwater. For Phragmites australis, the fastest decay was observed in the mid estuary, where Phragmites australis occurs naturally, confirming previous studies. The decomposition rates measured at different time intervals (0–15, 0–30 and 0–60 days) were always higher for the algae and decreased with time for both species. These results indicate that the use of decomposition rates as a measure of ecosystem integrity or quality status in transitional waters will not be straightforward and must take into account, among others, the test species, the study area positioning along the estuarine gradient, and the time interval for the calculation of the decomposition rate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We collected fishes and environmental variables in three zones (upper, middle and lower) of a small open tropical estuary during flood tide. The aim was to test for differences in fish assemblages along a gradient from freshwater to marine waters and to detect any seasonal variation in fishes and environmental variables across these zones. A total of 111 species (18 in the upper, 50 in the middle and 66 in the lower estuary) were recorded, forming three distinct fish assemblages, with the family Eleotridae dominating in the upper, Gerreidae in the middle, and Sciaenidae in the lower estuary. Only two species ( Geophagus brasiliensis in the upper and the middle zones, and Eucinostomus argenteus in the middle and the lower zones) composed more than 1% of the total number of individuals in more than a single zone. Short-term (tidal) changes in salinity in the middle estuary were associated with different assemblages in the three estuarine zones, even in winter, when the differences in salinity are lowest between the middle and the lower zones. Seasonal variation in salinity was irrelevant, except in a protected sidewater lagoon in the middle estuary. Low salinity seasonal change may be related to the lack of seasonal variation in the structure of fish assemblages in all estuarine zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The structure of the macrozoobenthic community in 2003–2004 in the southern part of the Onega Bay along a salinity gradient showed the poorest fauna (one species) was found in the estuarine area. In the open part of the bay the species richness up to 64 species. In the study area, as a whole, the zoobenthos abundance varied from 51 to 4590ind.m−2, biomass – from 0.51 to 651.4gm−2 and lower values occurred in the estuarine part of the Onega Bay. The Shannon diversity index [log2 basis] varied considerably – from 0.69 bits in the mouth of the Onega River up to 4.56 bits at the marine stations. Liner multiple regression analysis showed that species richness is related primarily to depth, distance, temperature and the amount of C org. in sediments; Shannon diversity is connected with salinity, temperature, depth, amount of C org. in sediments and chlorophyll concentration in the water. For abundance and biomass the main determining factors were distance and concentration of C org. in sediments. Fresh water input from the Onega River caused variations in the salinity regime in the top of the Bay which indirectly influenced zoobenthic populations via other parameters which changed as a result of river discharge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Estuaries are characterised by salinity gradients and regular flooding events. These environmental factors form stress gradients, along which species composition changes. Aims: Analyse and compare patterns of plant species diversity along the estuarine salinity and flooding gradients of the Elbe and Connecticut Rivers. Methods: Vegetation was sampled at three elevations (low, mid, high) in five sites of each marsh type (fresh, brackish, salt) in both estuaries. Patterns of species density (SD) and evenness (E) along the gradients were analysed and compared between the two estuaries with three-factor ANOVAs. Results: The regional species pool was 33% higher for the Connecticut than for the Elbe. SD of fresh marshes (19 ± 2.2) was more than twice in the Connecticut than in the Elbe. We found an overall increase in SD from low to high elevation and from salt to freshwater marshes in both estuaries. However, SD and E were strongly depressed at intermediate elevations in the Elbe fresh and brackish marshes. Conclusions: Although diversity patterns in the two estuaries show overall similarities, patterns of SD and E differ, when particular elevational zones and marsh types are compared. We hypothesise this to be due to evolutionary and historical influences on the regional species pools, shaping the impact of local biotic and abiotic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In order to assess quantitatively the foraminiferal response to the relative distance from the estuary mouth (RDEM) in the estuarine systems from the southern Bay of Biscay, a foraminifera-based transfer function has been developed using two models based on a modern dataset of 88 samples and 41 species obtained from six estuaries in northern Spain. We consider the RDEM of the foraminiferal assemblages as a proxy for salinity. The relationship between observed and foraminifera-predicted RDEM illustrates the strong performance of the transfer function ( ranges from 0.73 to 0.76). These results indicate that precise reconstructions of former RDEM are possible. In fact, the transfer functions have relatively low root-mean-square errors of prediction (expressed as a percentage of the range of the modern environmental gradient sampled), ∼11%, which is comparable to other foraminifera-based transfer functions from the northern Atlantic Ocean. This is even more important considering that it is of a regional significance and that the sampling was performed randomly to minimize sample autocorrelation and the possible correlation among the different variables controlling the foraminiferal distribution (e.g., elevation and salinity). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Monitoring of uranium in the environment using the Diffusive Gradients in Thin-films (DGT) technique gains in importance as it can provide unique information about the bioavailability of the element and allows its long-term in-situ measurement. Hence, in this study, four DGT binding phases (Chelex-100, Dow-PIWBA, Diphonix, and Lewatit FO 36 resins) were evaluated for uranium monitoring to assess the robustness of their performance in estuarine and marine environments. These DGTs were deployed along the Scheldt estuary (Belgium and the Netherlands) over four campaigns between 2014 and 2021. The DGT performance (ratio of the DGT-determined vs. dissolved U concentration in grab water sample) varied with the water salinity. The Chelex-100 DGTs generally provided good performance in freshwater (median ratios close to 1.0), but an inverse correlation with the increasing salinity was observed (median ratios 0.7 at the stations with salinity >5). The Lewatit FO 36 DGTs provided good performance in the salinity range 0–18 (median ratios 1.0). However, a strong negative influence was observed at stations with high salinity levels (>18, ratio 0.6) and during the long-term deployment in seawater (ratios <0.5 over deployment periods ≥2 days). The Dow-PIWBA and Diphonix DGTs provided overall similar results with excellent performances along the whole salinity gradient (median ratios 1.1 and 1.0, respectively). Nevertheless, the long-term deployment trial in seawater (salinity ∼27) revealed the robustness of Diphonix DGTs that provided outstanding results even after 28 days of deployment (ratio 1.0). The differences in the performance of tested DGT resins were mostly given by the changes of U speciation along the salinity gradient. The speciation modelling of U showed that calcium uranyl carbonate complexes dominate along the Scheldt estuary (from 97 to 86% seawards) with increasing fraction of UO 2 (CO 3) 3 4− (from 2 to 14%) towards the mouth. [Display omitted] • Comparative study of DGT resins for determination of uranium reveals their applicability in natural waters. • The Chelex-100 and Lewatit FO 36 are not suitable for application in seawater (salinity >5 and 18, respectively). • Dow-PIWBA and Diphonix provide excellent results in seawater (salinity ∼27). • Only Diphonix quantitatively accumulates uranium even after 28 days of deployment in seawater. • Uranium speciation along the salinity gradient has strong influence on the DGT performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigated the spatial distribution of subtidal nematode communities along the salinity gradients of two Portuguese estuaries exposed to different degrees of anthropogenic stress: the Mira and the Mondego. The nematode communities were mainly composed of Sabatieria, Metachromadora, Daptonema, Anoplostoma, Sphaerolaimus and Terschellingia species, closely resembling the communities of Northern European estuaries. In both estuaries, nematode density and community composition followed the salinity gradient, naturally establishing three distinct estuarine sections: (i) freshwater and oligohaline – characterised by the presence of freshwater nematodes, low nematode density and diversity; (ii) mesohaline – dominated by Terschellingia, Sabatieria and Daptonema, with low total density and diversity; and (iii) polyhaline and euhaline – where nematodes reached the highest density and diversity, and Paracomesoma, Synonchiella, and Odontophora were dominant. Despite the similarities in community composition and total nematode density, the proportion of different nematode feeding types were remarkably different in the two estuaries. In Mira, selective deposit feeders were dominant in the oligohaline section, while non-selective deposit feeders were dominant in the other sections. On the contrary, in the Mondego estuary, epigrowth-feeders and omnivores/predators were dominant in the freshwater sections and in the euhaline sector of the southern arm. Differences observed along each estuarine gradient were much stronger than overall differences between the two estuaries. In the Mondego estuary, the influence of anthropogenic stressors seemed not to be relevant in determining the nematodes'' spatial distribution patterns, therefore suggesting that mesoscale variability responded essentially to natural stressors, characteristic of estuarine gradients. Nevertheless, the proportion of the different feeding types was different between the two estuaries, indicating that the response of nematode feeding guilds is able to reflect anthropogenic-induced stress and can be useful in assessing biological quality in transitional waters ecosystems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The littoral and demersal ichthyofaunal community structure in the freshwater-deprived, permanently open Kariega Estuary was investigated following heavy rain in November 2006 and was compared to low-flow condition data from 1991 and 1996. All surveys took place during the spring months and allowed for a comparison of a wet and a dry spring period. The 2006 freshwater pulse generated a strong horizontal salinity gradient within the estuary. In the absence of freshwater inflow, the ichthyofaunal community in the littoral zone was numerically dominated by estuarine resident species, whilst after the freshwater pulse an increased contribution of marine migrant species was observed. Within the demersal zone, marine straggler species dominated during the dry spring period and estuarine residents during the wet spring period. Numerical analyses of the littoral and demersal fish assemblages indicated the presence of three distinct groupings - corresponding to the upper and middle reaches during separate wet and dry periods, and a community associated with the lower reaches of the estuary. It is suggested that the shift in community structure between the dry and wet spring periods could be related to altered physico-chemical and trophic conditions within the estuary, as well as the increased presence of freshwater and estuarine olfactory cues within the coastal zone, which would have resulted in the recruitment of 0+ estuary-associated marine species into the Kariega system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporal and spatial variation of the macrofaunal community was investigated in seagrass meadows in Akkeshi-ko estuary and coastal area of Akkeshi Bay, northern Japan. We specifically addressed the question of how the salinity gradient in seagrass meadows affects the species richness, abundance and similarity of faunal groups classified based on the degree of association with the seagrasses, i.e. highly motile species that drift in the water column among seagrass blades (drift-fauna, DF group) and less motile species that are tightly associated with seagrass substrates ( seagrass-associated fauna, SA group). A total of 70 species were collected semi-quantitatively using an epibenthic sledge, among which more than one third of the species were captured in all areas, and a quarter of species only in the marine area. Significant spatial variation in species richness, as well as a positive relationship between salinity and species richness was found for most sampling occasions and for both functional groups. Whereas, relationship between salinity and abundance of macrofauna was not clear although significant time and site interactions were found for both functional groups. Patterns of similarity of assemblages varied between the functional groups: clear differences by sampling sites were discerned for DF group but not for SA group. These results provided evidence that the macrofaunal community structures in seagrass beds varied with the salinity gradient, but the pattern differed with time and between functional groups, possibly due to the effect of biotic and abiotic factors that also changed with salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxonomic sufficiency has been used mainly to assess benthic condition, based on the assumption that taxa can be identified to a taxonomic level higher than the species level without losing the ability to detect changes related to pollution stress. Identifying taxa to a higher level reduces the expertise and time needed to identify organisms and consequently allows increased spatial and temporal replication. The usefulness of taxonomic sufficiency for typology (identification of water body types) was examined using the benthic communities of the Mondego River estuary (Portugal). Benthic samples were collected seasonally along the Northern branch of the Mondego River estuary from July 2000 to June 2001 and several environmental parameters were measured simultaneously. Cluster analysis of species data indicated three major ecological groups, mainly related to a saline gradient along the estuary. The same groups were found when taxa were aggregated to higher taxonomic levels (genus, family, order, class), except for the phylum level. The overall spatial pattern was driven by: (1) the dominance of bivalves and the occurrence of rare marine species in the Lower Estuary; (2) the dominance of polychaetes in the Middle Estuary; (3) and the dominance of arthropods in the Upper Estuary. The ability of different taxocenes to discriminate the three ecological groups was also examined. Mollusca and Bivalvia were the only taxocenes producing the same groupings, although other taxocenes (Annelida, Polychaeta, Spionidae, Arthropoda) showed a significant ability to discriminate between all three groups. Compared to using all taxa identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level, our results indicate that for typology (1) several higher taxonomic levels were sufficient (2) while few taxocenes alone were sufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of a main project that aims to recover modern data on diatom distribution applicable to paleosalinity reconstructions in coastal areas of Southern South America, the composition and distribution of dead diatom assemblages in the littoral zone of the Quequén Salado estuary (Argentina) were studied. Diatom zones were defined along the estuarine gradient by cluster analysis and related to the salinity range and sediment composition by Canonical Correspondence Analysis. Four diatom zones were identified. A mixture of marine, brackish and freshwater diatoms, probably allochthonous, characterized the inlet (zone I). Marine/brackish taxa, represented mainly by Paralia sulcata dominated zone II, characterized by polyhaline conditions and sandy sediments. Zone III was characterized by mesohaline conditions, muddy sediments and the dominance of the estuarine diatom Amphora helenensis. Brackish/freshwater and freshwater diatoms dominated the headwaters (zone IV), where salinity was always below 5‰. The comparison of Quequén Salado diatom assemblages with previous results from the Quequén Grande estuary showed a similar taxonomic composition between both estuaries. However, differences in the salinity ranges of the estuaries (related to differences in the degree of human impact and tidal range) lead to a displacement in their spatial distribution along the longitudinal estuarine axis. This paper contributes to the knowledge of the ecological requirements of South American estuarine diatoms and provides useful data for paleosalinity reconstructions in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To quantify pollen–vegetation relationships from saline to freshwater in an estuarine gradient from surface samples of the modern pollen rain, to allow more accurate interpretations of the stratigraphic palynological record. Location Whangapoua Estuary, Great Barrier Island, northern New Zealand. Methods Six transects were laid out along a vegetation sequence running from estuarine mud to freshwater swamp. Along these transect lines, 108 plots were sampled for vegetation and surface sediments from wet sand, mud, plant litter or moss (sand and mud sites are inundated by most tides, other sites less frequently). All sediment samples were analysed for pollen. The relationships between plant species frequency and pollen representation were examined at a community scale usingtwinspan and ordination analyses, and for individual species using fidelity and dispersibility indices, regression and box-plot analyses. Results The quantitative relationships between source taxon vegetation frequency and its pollen representation varied between species due to differential pollen production and dispersal.twinspan of the surface pollen samples suggests five vegetation types: (A) mangrove ( Avicennia marina); (C) Leptocarpus similis salt meadow; (D) Baumea sedges; (E) Leptospermum shrubland; and (F) Typha/ Cordyline swamp forest. The (B) Juncus kraussii community is not represented palynologically owing to the destruction of its delicate pollen grains during acetolysis of samples. Detrended correspondence analysis places these communities on an estuarine-to-freshwater gradient. However, pollen assemblages at the seaward end of the salinity gradient are less clearly representative of the associated vegetation than those at the landward end, probably because the open vegetation at the former allows the influx of wind- and water-dispersed pollen from surrounding vegetation. Main conclusions The vegetation pattern (zonation) at Whangapoua is reflected in the pollen rain. When the long-distance and over-represented pollen types are excluded, five out of six of the broad vegetation communities can be identified by their pollen spectra. Species with high fidelity and low-to-moderate dispersibility indices can be used to identify the vegetation types in the sedimentary sequences. The more open vegetation types at the ‘marine end’ of the sequence tend to be ‘overwhelmed’ by regional pollen, but the nature of the sediments and the presence of discriminatory species (e.g. A. marina, Plagianthus divaricatus, Cordyline australis), even in small amounts, will allow correct identification of the local vegetation represented in sedimentary palynological sequences. A box-plot analysis indicates that the pollen and spore types A. marina (mangroves), Sarcocornia quinqueflora (salt meadow), P. divaricatus (sedges), Gleichenia (shrubland) and C. australis (swamp forest) are highly discriminatory in relation to vegetation type. These discriminatory palynomorphs help with the interpretation of stratigraphic pollen studies. However, salt marsh vegetation communities in the sediments must be interpreted with caution as the marine sediments are easily affected by erosion, bioturbation and tidal inundation effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultratrace concentrations of Ti were determined by catalytic differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry (cDPAdSV) in samples collected in the Pará and Amazon estuaries and plume into the Atlantic Ocean. Different end members including rivers Tocantins, Amazon and Pará and Atlantic seawater were sampled as well as the salinity gradients in the mixing zone between the river outflows and waters from the North Brazil Current during several transects. The Mangrove Belt southeast of the Pará river mouth with its extensive groundwater discharge was also sampled. Most samples were taking during cruise M147 (GEOTRACES process study GApr11) during the high discharge period in April and May 2018. In addition to high resolution determination of dissolved Ti distributions in this region, size fractionation was investigated by using several filtration steps with pore sizes (0.2 μm, and 0.015 μm) and ultrafiltration (10 kDa and 1 kDa) at four selected stations. Dissolved Ti varied significantly between different river end members and showed a non-conservative behavior along the mixing gradients with strong removal at low salinities and some enrichments at higher salinity ranges. The results suggest that there was both adsorption and desorption of Ti from suspended particles from both riverine and marine sources or flocculation and aggregation of colloids and particulate matter from end member rivers as well as resuspension at particular salinity ranges. The 0.015 μm filtered and 10 kDa and 1 kDa ultrafiltered aliquots showed variable distributions of Ti in the different size fractions, depending on the sampling zone. This very complex behavior of Ti along the mixing gradient and the dynamic system of the Amazon estuary, which comprises a fifth of the global freshwater flux into the ocean, is the key to controlling the fluxes of Ti into the Atlantic. [Display omitted] • Detailed Ti data set for Pará and Amazon rivers, estuaries and plume. • Strong depletion of particle-reactive element Ti at initial mixing with seawater. • Significant remobilization of soluble Ti along the salinity gradient. • Both colloidal and truly dissolved Ti fractions along the complete mixing transect. • Our Ti data from 2018 show similar trends as a study from 1989. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distribution patterns in the upper intertidal zone, where diversity is low, are often explained by the variation in physical factors. However, certain environmental conditions may hinder resource monopolization by a dominant species, allowing for the coexistence of species. Under these conditions, interspecific interactions may become relevant. In southeastern Brazil, the upper intertidal zone of exposed rocky shores is typically colonized by the barnacle Chthamalus bisinuatus. In estuaries, two other species, Chthamalus proteus and Microeuraphia rhizophorae, may occur on hard substrates, although patterns of coexistence at relevant spatial scales are presently unknown, which prevents a better understanding of the ecology of rocky shore systems in the region. This study aimed to (i) describe the distribution patterns of chthamalid barnacles along the Paranaguá Estuarine Complex (PEC) and (ii) evaluate the vertical distribution of species in places where substantial coexistence was observed to preliminarily test whether their distribution is compatible with a lottery model of resource acquisition or compatible with a process of interspecific interference competition. A well-defined barnacle community was observed along the upper intertidal zone, from the euhaline to the oligohaline sector, with the cover area being larger in the euhaline sector. The effects of hydrodynamic exposure were limited to the euhaline sector, where barnacles covered larger extensions of the rocky intertidal habitat at more exposed sites. Barnacle density did not vary consistently among sectors or levels of hydrodynamic exposure but changed according to certain combinations of these factors. As a result, the realized habitat tended to decrease from the mouth of the estuary to the oligohaline sector. Three species were recorded in this study: Chthamalus bisinuatus , practically limited to the euhaline sector; Microeuraphia rhizophorae , limited to the polyhaline and mesohaline sectors; and Chthamalus proteus , limited to the polyhaline, mesohaline and oligohaline sectors. Habitat sharing was substantial only in 3 of the 16 sampled sites and only between Microeuraphia rhizophorae and Chthamalus proteus. At low barnacle densities, up to 40% substrate cover, there was no apparent vertical segregation between these two species. Above 40–50% cover, Microeuraphia rhizophorae occupied a higher position on the shore than Chthamalus proteus. These results suggest a lottery model when vacant space is still abundant and interspecific interference competition when barnacle abundance surpasses a critical abundance threshold. In this latter case, Chthamalus proteus displaces Microeuraphia rhizophorae to upper zone levels, where conditions for growth and reproduction are probably less favorable. • Competition between cthamalids in polihaline sector. •Inference of cover percentage through the photoquadrat. •Photoquadrat to study ecology of the upper midlittoral zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterotrophic bacteria that differ in their nucleic acid content are frequently observed in aquatic environments. However, their relevance and roles in organic matter utilization in monsoon-influenced tropical estuaries have not been addressed. Transparent exopolymer particles (TEP) are one of the carbohydrate rich organic matter forms in aquatic environments, and their breakdown is mostly mediated by a heterotrophic bacterial ectoenzyme, i.e., β – glucosidase (BGase). The present study evaluated the influence of shifts in high nucleic acid content– (HNA) and low nucleic acid content – (LNA) bacteria on the degradation of TEP with emphasis on BGase activity. For this, monthly observations were carried out along the Zuari estuary, India, on the abundance of HNA, LNA bacteria, bacterial production (BP), and BGase activity. The results showed that the contribution of HNA bacteria to total bacterial count was high and positively influenced the BP and BGase activity during the non-monsoon seasons, which represents a well-mixed water column. During this time, HNA also influenced the active utilization of TEP. Whereas, LNA bacteria dominated during the monsoon, wherein the water column is strongly stratified, and showed decoupling with BGase activity, irrespective of the depth. Redundancy and response curve analyses revealed that the interactive effect of monsoon (rainfall) and stratification significantly altered the bacterial activity in this estuary. Besides, the variability in side scatter (SSC), and fluorescence intensity (FL 1) of HNA and LNA bacteria suggest that these two groups play distinct ecological roles in the tropical estuarine systems. Unravelling the links between the different nucleic acid content bacteria and their phylogenetic composition can provide insights into their functional roles in monsoonal estuaries. • Seasonal shifts in the bacterial physiological states were observed. • HNA bacteria influenced bacterial production and β-glucosidase activity during non-monsoon. • LNA bacteria dominated during monsoon, and decoupled with β – glucosidase activity. • Bacterial physiological states linked to distinct ecological roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuarine environmental gradients are strong drivers structuring aquatic metacommunities and may cause an orderly loss or gain of species across sites. Locations with milder environmental conditions may allow the establishment of many species with different functional traits, while stressful sites may restrict the occurrence of a reduced set of species with specific functional traits. This can generate a functional nestedness pattern, where the functional traits present at sites with low functional diversity are subsets of the functional traits present at sites with higher functional diversity. In this study, we evaluated the functional nestedness of polychaete communities along salinity gradients of tropical estuaries, and the effects of seasonal periods on the distribution pattern. Two tropical estuarine ecosystems (Mamanguape and Paraíba do Norte, Northeastern Brasil) were sampled for two years. Three functional traits were considered due to their potential to reflect the species responses to the salinity gradient: maximum body size, life span and fecundity. Functional nestedness was estimated with the traitNODF metric. Subsequently, we used a permutation test to assess whether the nestedness observed along the salinity gradient was distinct from the expected at random. Our results demonstrated that the polychaete communities presented a tendency to functional nestedness along the salinity gradient of estuaries, with observed statistics higher than expected in six of the eight tests performed (2 estuaries * 2 years * 2 seasons). Therefore, the functional diversity of polychaete genera present in the low salinity sites in general were nested subsets of the diversity at high salinity sites. Our results suggest that salinity acted as a strong environmental filter in estuarine ecosystems, causing an orderly loss in the functional traits of polychaete genera along the longitudinal extension of the estuaries. Our results advance in the understanding on how environmental gradients structure polychaete communities and can support future studies aimed to develop conservation strategies for estuarine ecosystems located throughout the world. Image 1 • The salinity gradient caused a non-random loss of functional traits of polychaetes. • Salinity structured the functional distribution more than the taxonomic composition. • The salinity gradient drove nested patterns regardless of the seasonal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]