| The evolution of benthic pelagic coupling was followed in two semi-intensive shrimp ponds in New Caledonia, with a special emphasis on the role of microphytobenthos (MPB). Three distinct periods could be identified. During the first period, MPB activity led to relative decoupling between the water column and the sediment, both compartments being autotrophic with low nutrients exchanges. During the second period, the sediment operated at the edge of a functional switch between autotrophy and heterotrophy. The amplitude of nutrient fluxes depended of the pool considered (DIN, DIP) and showed light dark variation. In the last period, sediment switched to heterotrophy with the establishment of benthic-pelagic coupling concomitantly to a massive sediment... |
