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The sources, transport pathways and main distribution limitations of surface sediments were clearly identified in the Bohai Sea (BS) and Yellow Sea (YS) by combining the particle size and magnetic property distribution characteristics. The sediment distribution pattern on shelves is mainly controlled by the sediment sources, which include Huanghe-derived sediments, coastally eroded sediments, old Huanghe and old Changjiang subaqueous delta sediments, and mixed sediments transported by the Yellow Sea Warm Current (YSWC). The distribution pattern of silt reflects the transport pathway and limitation of the Huanghe- and old Huanghe-derived sediments, and the sand distribution reflects the final distribution of the coastally eroded sediments, including the eroded old Changjiang subaqueous delta sediments. In addition to the sediment sources, the complex hydrodynamic pattern on the shelves has an important influence on sediment distribution and transport. The sediment particle size and topography of shelves exert limited control over the sediment distribution. Surface sediment sources in the central South YS (SYS) were identified, with the most important contribution being from mixed sediment sources and a convergence area of finer sediment located at approximately 123°E, 36°N. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]