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Salinity-Driven Stratification Enhances Riverine Mercury Export to the Coastal Ocean
Roland P Ovbiebo1, Cathryn D Sephus1, Amina T Schartup1
1Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego.
Research Square
|April 8, 2025
Summary
Estuarine stratification intensifies mercury (Hg) export to coastal oceans. Climate change may increase Hg and methylmercury (MeHg) release from estuaries due to enhanced stratification.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Oceanography
- Ecosystem Dynamics
Background:
- Rivers are significant pathways for mercury (Hg) transport to coastal oceans.
- Estuarine circulation and stratification influence metal export but their impact on Hg is uncertain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To model Hg transformation and export under varying salinity-driven stratification regimes.
- To assess the influence of stratification on mercury and methylmercury (MeHg) dynamics in estuaries.
Main Methods:
- Developed three numerical models simulating Hg transport under well-mixed, slightly stratified, and highly stratified conditions.
- Utilized data from the Chesapeake Bay (CPB) and Hudson River Estuary (HRE).
Main Results:
- Stratification increased riverine Hg export by 19% (CPB) and 20% (HRE).
- Shorter Hg residence times correlated with faster export; unstratified conditions favored Hg burial.
- Slightly stratified conditions in CPB enhanced MeHg production (11.5%) and export (16.4%).
Conclusions:
- Estuarine stratification significantly impacts Hg and MeHg export to coastal waters.
- Projected increases in stratification due to climate change may lead to greater Hg and MeHg release from estuaries.
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