Distribution and quality of sedimentary organic matter on the Aquitanian margin (Bay of Biscay)

摘要: Abstract During the ECOFER experiment (French ECOMARGE program), surficial sediments were sampled on Aquitanian margin with box corers and analyzed to determine quantity quality of organic matter. Sediments from are enriched in carbon (mean value 1.35%) comparison deep-sea shelf sediments, due a fine grain-size sedimentation. As sedimentation rates high, appears be an depocenter. Some preferential enrichment zones identified Cap-Ferret Canyon. There is supply continental material Gironde estuary, but marine contribution seems more possible than Adour or spanish rivers. No seasonal variations matter observed at surface suggesting mineralization processes labile matter: average consumption was evaluated 9.0 g C m −2  yr −1 . Rapid biological lower Mediterranean margin, mainly related significant differences water temperature. The great width canyon, its distance continent, current circulation pattern prevent any precise recording variable inputs sediment favor nepheloid transport, resuspension break processes, which wipe out print fresh input. An budget indicates that equilibrium between mineralization+accumulation not obtainable. suspended could have been minor during year question, still imprecise.