Lagoon conductivity and turbitity changes result from tidal influences.
Conductivity and turbidity are physical parameters that are measured in aquatic environments. Conductivity is the amount of dissolved ions in the water column; whereas turbidity, is the amount of suspended particles in the water column.
Lagoon Physical Parameters
Lagoons are shallow bodies of water separated from the ocean by land that is parallel to the coastline. Since lagoons are shallow, they are constantly fluctuating in their physical and biological parameters. The tidal influences can fluctuate not only the temperature, but the salinity, which effects the conductivity of the lagoon. In addition, tides can effect the amount of suspended particles or turbidity of the lagoon as well.
Inverse Relationship
With an increase in flow rate or turbidity, which occurs during high tide in a lagoon habitat, the conductivity will decrease. With an decrease in turbidity, the conductivity will show an increase in value. This represents an inverse relationship between conductivity and turbidity.
Role in Phytoplankton Growth
The values for conductivity and turbidity in a lagoon habitat influence water clarity, which in turn stimulates phytoplankton (plank-like plankton) growth. Phytoplankton growth is essential to marine environments as they undergo photosynthesis and provide nutrients to marine organisms. An increase in turbidity due to an increase in suspended particles and a decrease in conductivity results in a decrease in light penetration and phytoplankton growth in the lagoon.
Tags: suspended particles, amount suspended, amount suspended particles, conductivity turbidity, conductivity will, lagoon habitat, tidal influences