engleski

Towards oligotrophication of the northern Adriatic: A reality?

Long data series (1972-2007) of oceanographic parameters collected on a monthly basis on the Po River delta-Rovinj transect (northern Adriatic) were analyzed. In the last 5 years a clear signal indicating a reduction of the available orthophosphate in the ecosystem was identified. In the same period a general tendency towards a reduction of chlorophyll a concentration was also noted. Coupled with greater orthophosphate limitation an evident accumulation of total inorganic nitrogen (especially nitrate) was observed. The major cause is supposed to be an extreme change in the Po River freshwater inflow resulting in a decrease of nutrients load to the northern Adriatic ecosystem. A reduction of freshwater input on an annual scale of 48% was observed in the last three years.

nutrients; Po River; northern Adriatic

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