- Dona Paula, Goa, India.
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| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-2022-09-0289 |
| Title of Abstract | Seasonality in dissolved inorganic carbon dynamics from the major estuaries of western India |
| Authors | Sangeeta M.Naik*, V.Ranga Rao, M.V.Ramana Murthy |
| Organisation | National Centre for Coastal Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences |
| Address | Block C, School of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Goa University Taleigao plateau, Goa, India Pincode: 403206 Mobile: 9765579699 E-mail: naiksangeeta146@gmail.com |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) is a major constituent of the carbon species and biogeochemically important parameter in the aquatic systems. The role of oceans in the inorganic carbon dynamics is well established globally. What is not well understood is the contribution of the estuaries and their seasonal influence on regulating the inorganic carbon dynamics. In order to address the same, seasonal study was carried out in seven major estuaries along western India viz. Cochin backwaters (south), Nethravati, Mandovi, Zuari (centre), Thane, Amba and Narmada (north) during June (high flow), September (moderate to low flow) and December (lean flow) 2018. Lowest concentrations of DIC were observed in the south and central estuaries during high flow conditions (242 ± 360 µmol L-1) as they are fed mostly by non-carbonaceous river beds which export less DIC to the estuary as well as to the adjoining coastal regions of Arabian Sea. The DIC concentrations were much lesser in other seasons and estuaries viz. northern estuaries during high flow (1695 ± 38 µmol L-1) compared to low (2286 ± 426 µmol L-1) and lean flow (2416 ± 124 µmol L-1) periods. As the runoff reduced from June to December, the influx of seawater into the estuaries contributed to higher DIC concentrations in the southern and central estuaries (1538 ± 330 µmol L-1). The DIC dynamics, in turn, source or sink of CO2 from these estuaries and their export contribution to the Arabian Sea is being investigated. |