The Phison River System: A Conceptual Model of C, N and P Transformations in the Aquatic Continuum from Land to Sea

Transfer of biogenic elements from the terrestrial environment to the ocean is a key step in their global cycle as well as an important process locally determining the functioning of coastal systems. The interface between terrestrial and marine systems is not limited to the coast line: it comprises the whole aquatic continuum, including river system, lakes and estuaries. Transfer of elements through this continuum thus involves passage through active ecosystems which can act as very effective and selective “filters” for nutrients. The effectiveness and selectivity of the processes of transformation, elimination or immobilization of nutrients during their transfer through the aquatic continuum depends on the strong biogeochemical coupling existing between carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus circulations.These processes are also strongly influenced by hydrology and land use.

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