Atmospheric inputs of phosphorus and nitrogen to the southwest Mediterranean region: Biogeochemical responses of high mountain lakes

• DOI: 10.4319/lo.2006.51.2.0830
• Publication Date: 2010-07-01T18:00:12Z
• Authors: Rafael Morales-Ba...; Elvira Pulido-Vil...; Isabel Reche
• Keywords: Biogeochemical Cycle; Deposition; Biogeochemistry; Redfield ratio; Mineral dust

We quantified dry and wet deposition of dust, nitrogen, phosphorus over the southwest Mediterranean region (Sierra Nevada, Spain) assessed its effects on nutrient status chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentration in two high mountain lakes. Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) total (TP) were mainly associated with dryfall showed seasonal pattern similar to that reported for Saharan dust export toward region, maxima during spring summer. In contrast, nitrogen (TN) was related rainfall did not follow observed PM TP. The molar TN:TP ratio significantly lower (i.e., phosphorus-enriched) (TN vs. TP slope = 11.2) than 95.5). study lakes, ratios Chl concentrations influenced by content atmospheric deposition, respectively. Lake responses more pronounced phosphorous-limited system. These results establish direct connection between lake a, making evident these inputs are an important source phosphorous affecting biogeochemistry oligotrophic systems.