Tidal resuspension in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts

Abstract

Greater than 50% increases in the amount of particulate organic C and chlorophyll a per square meter occurred in a 13 m water column of Buzzards Bay [USA] during tidal cycles. The composition and quantity of the resuspended material varied seasonally. Greater percentages of the C in the water column were resuspended during the summer and winter months while more resuspension of chlorophyll a occurred during spring and summer. Increases in the amount of primary production in the water column occurred with the resuspension of chlorophyll a, indicating that the resuspended cells were viable. The contribution of this resuspended phytoplankton to the total yearly primary productivity can be significant. The tidal resuspension of phytoplankton and detritus from the mud bottom of Buzzards Bay, if utilized by the zooplankton community, could provide significant food resources for secondary production.