ASSESSMENT OF POREWATER DISCHARGE IN A MANGROVE TIDAL CREEK AND ITS IMPLICATIONS ON COASTAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES

Abstract

The objective of this research is to characterize the carbon and nutrient dynamics in a mangrove tidal creek and evaluate their importance at the coastal scale (Can Gio, Vietnam). Mangroves are highly productive ecosystems acting as natural carbon sinks but with an unclear role regarding nutrients. Although carbon sequestration in mangrove sediments is well described, less is known regarding the lateral tidal exchange of mangrove-derived material. In this study, the importance of porewater discharge to transfer organic and inorganic material from mangrove sediments to tidal creeks is examined. The tidal exchange of carbon to coastal waters and to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide is also investigated. Finally, the role mangroves play at the estuarine scale in a human-affected estuary is also addressed, regarding the nutrient dynamics. This study provides key findings related to fundamental ecosystem services mangroves provides such as climate regulation, water quality maintenance, and fishery resources.