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Carbonate chemistry dynamics in Narragansett Bay, RI
Citation:
Pimenta, A., J. Grear, A. Oczkowski, AND R. McKinney. Carbonate chemistry dynamics in Narragansett Bay, RI. New England Estuarine Research Society Fall Meeting 2022, Providence, RI, November 17 - 19, 2022.
Impact/Purpose:
This abstract introduces our study demonstration the utility of using carbonate chemistry measurements to describe biogeochemical processes in estuarine systems. Aside from traditional indicators of estuarine metabolism, such as dissolved oxygen, careful analysis of the carbonate system provides additional ecologically relevant information. The information provided by carbonate chemistry analysis allowed for the characterization of acidification events which have the potential to disrupt the ecological functioning of coastal biological communities.
Description:
Geographical and seasonal patterns of carbonate chemistry in Narragansett Bay were assessed through direct measurements of total alkalinity (TA) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) during monthly sampling cruises. These measurements were used to calculate the biologically relevant indicators: total pH, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the gas phase (pCO2), and the aragonite saturation state. The information provided by carbonate chemistry analysis allowed for the characterization of acidification events, which have the potential to disrupt the ecological functioning of coastal biological communities. Robust relationships were found between salinity and TA and between salinity and DIC that persisted through all regions, seasons, and depth-layers. Additionally, the biologically relevant calculated carbonate system parameters total pH, and pCO2 had high correlation with dissolved oxygen saturation, an established measure of ecosystem metabolism.
