A Study of Carbon and Nitrogen Stable Isotope and Elemental Ratios as Potential Indicators of Source and Fate of Organic Matter in Sediments of the Forth Estuary, Scotland

Graham, M.C., Eaves, M.A., Farmer, J.G., Dobson, J. and Fallick, A.E. (2001) A Study of Carbon and Nitrogen Stable Isotope and Elemental Ratios as Potential Indicators of Source and Fate of Organic Matter in Sediments of the Forth Estuary, Scotland. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 52(3), pp. 375-380. (doi: 10.1006/ecss.2000.0742)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1006/ecss.2000.0742

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the importance of both natural and anthropogenic sources of organic matter in bottom sediments of the Forth Estuary, east Scotland, U.K. Organic matter from the upper, middle and lower zones of the estuary was characterized using stable isotope (delta<sup>13</sup>C and delta<sup>15</sup>N) and elemental (C/H and C/N) ratios. The observed narrow range of isotopic and elemental ratio data, over the entire length of the estuary, was consistent with relatively efficient mixing of sediments, although delta<sup>13</sup>C values of -23.6‰ and C/H ratios of 3.9±0.3 for lower estuary sediments did suggest a change to a more marine-influenced system. delta<sup>15</sup>N and C/N ratios could not be used, however, to indicate either the source or the fate of sediment organic matter. No specific anthropogenic source could be identified on the basis of elemental and/or stable isotopic information.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Fallick, Professor Anthony
Authors: Graham, M.C., Eaves, M.A., Farmer, J.G., Dobson, J., and Fallick, A.E.
Subjects:Q Science > QD Chemistry
G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GC Oceanography
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre
Journal Name:Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science
ISSN:0272-7714

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