Biogeochemistry of Gulf of Mexico estuaries

Abstract

Today the ecological health of the Gulf of Mexico - long the base of vast commercial fisheries - is at risk from a potent array of threats, from increased nutrient inputs to the loss of coastal wetlands that impact water quality. Never before has knowledge of the biogeochemical processes of the Gulf's estuaries and wetlands been so critical to its preservation, and yet until now research on this vital area has been fragmented. Biogeochemistry of Gulf of Mexico Estuaries offers a comprehensive, integrated examination of these vital natural resources and their ecology. Biogeochemistry of Gulf of Mexico Estuaries will be welcomed by ecologists, marine scientists, environmental activists, and anyone involved with managing these precious natural resources. Sect. I. Physical Characteristics. Ch. 1. Geology and Hydrodynamics of Gulf of Mexico Estuaries. Ch. 2. Hydrography, Mixing Characteristics, and Residence Times of Gulf of Mexico Estuaries. Ch. 3. Sedimentary Processes of Gulf of Mexico Estuaries -- Sect. II. Nutrient Dynamics. Ch. 4. Suspended Particulate and Dissolved Nutrient Loadings to Gulf of Mexico Estuaries. Ch. 5. Nutrient Behavior and Phytoplankton Production in Gulf of Mexico Estuaries. Ch. 6. Benthic Nutrient Fluxes in Selected Estuaries in the Gulf of Mexico. Ch. 7. Wetland-Water Column Interactions and the Biogeochemistry of Estuary-Watershed Coupling Around the Gulf of Mexico -- Sect. III. Organic Matter Cycling.