The Port Valdez intertidal sediment system was studied for three years and described in this report. Physical, geological, geochemical, hydrocarbon, and biological features were examined. Sediments were poorly sorted gravels to plastic clays, and had low amounts of organic matter. Bacterial numbers varied from site to site, and decreased in numbers with depth. Meiofauna consisted primarily of nematodes and harpacticoid copepods. Most meiofaunal species were restricted to the upper three centimeters throughout the year. Meiofauna densities were typically highest in summer and lowest in winter. Reproductive activities of copepods tended to be seasonal with only one species reproducing throughout the year. Bacterial populations were unaffected by single applications of up to 2000 ppm of Prudhoe Bay crude oil or by chronic applications. Uptake and release of added oil by intertidal sediments and the clam Macoma balthica were examined in the field.

July 1976. Includes appendices. Includes bibliographical references (pages 267-276, 321).

A three year study of the intertidal sediment system of Port Valdez and possible indicators for oil spill.