River input studies using continuous-series microecosystems

Date

1969

Authors

Cooper, David C.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

The University of Texas, Marine Science Institute at Port Aransas

Abstract

The basic objectives of this study are cited in the first quarterly report. In review, this primary purpose of this project is to assess the role of qualitative and quantitative variations in input on the synecological characteristics of six continuous series microecosystesm. These so-called continuous-series microecosystems comprise at this time, a unique tool for the study of functional ecology-especially the functional ecology of estuarine regions. They represent the end-product of a great deal of thought, design, and trial and error procedures of the author, and Drs. B.J. Copeland and R.J. Beyers. Continuous-series microecosystems, when properly maintained attains steady state physiochemical characteristics which are in many was representative of an estuary; it is a dynamic system rather than a closed off, isolated, microcosm, with continuous import and export of water and nutrients; a salinity gradient is attained and maintained; and mixing and exchange between various regions of a continuous series microecosystem is a continous phenomenon.

Description

pgs. D1-D28

Keywords

ecosystems, fluid flow, river discharge, inflow, salinity gradients, estuaries

Citation