Illustrate spatial estuarine gradients by collecting water column and benthic samples along an estuarine transect from the Gulf of Mexico to the Aransas River, a distance of approximately 20 nautical miles. Estuaries are spatially and temporally dynamic systems. They exhibit a gradient of physical and biological factors from the river mouth to the open ocean due to the changing fresh and saline water influences. We will make in situ measurements of various physical and chemical parameters, collect water samples for subsequent laboratory analysis and attempt to correlate these parameters with phytoplankton abundance and with density and species composition of the predominant benthic fauna. Each boat will be outfitted with specific gear and a knowledgeable TA for the sampling outlined below.
Initial crews are responsible for making sure all equipment is present.
Approximate location of stations is marked on the attached map. In order to gain experience with all equipment and techniques, students will switch boats along the transect. All equipment remains on board the same boat for the entire trip. Sampling at each station must be completed within ten minutes to allow for sufficient time for subsequent laboratory work. Salinity, water temperature and incident light will be measured at the sea surface.