| In relation with meteorological, hydrological and topographic characteristics, Corsica has a very large number of temporarily open/closed micro-estuaries. Agriates contains several of them, including the Fiume Santu’s temporarily micro-estuary. These ecosystems are specific because of their sporadic connection with the sea. The opening and closure depends on both the river flow and the presence of the Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile “banquettes”. Characterization of the global functioning was based on a multiparameter approach (particulate matter and dissolved inorganic matter descriptors, carbon and nitrogen stable isotope, phytoplankton communities), in order to qualify and quantify the organic matter (OM), along an estuary – coastal zone gradient. The OM... |
