Publication Citation

USGS Series Open-File Report
Report Number 82-551
Title Continuous water sampling and water analysis in estuaries
Edition -
Language ENGLISH
Author(s) Schemel, L. E.; Dedini, L. A.
Year 1982
Originating office
USGS Library Call Number (200) R29o no.82-551 MP
Physical description 28 p., ill., maps ;28 cm.
ISBN

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Abstract

Salinity, temperature, light transmission, oxygen saturation, pH, pCO2, chlorophyll a fluorescence, and the concentrations of nitrate, nitrite, dissolved silica, orthophosphate, and ammonia are continuously measured with a system designed primarily for estuarine studies. Near-surface water (2-m depth) is sampled continuously while the vessel is underway; on station, water to depths of 100 m is sampled with a submersible pump. The system is comprised of commercially available instruments, equipment, and components, and of specialized items designed and fabricated by the authors. Data are read from digital displays, analog strip-chart recorders, and a teletype printout, and can be logged in disc storage for subsequent plotting. Data records made in San Francisco Bay illustrate physical, biological, and chemical estuarine processes, such as mixing and phytoplankton net production. The system resolves large- and small-scale events, which contributes to its reliability and usefulness.