A study of the net flux of nitrates from estuaries of the eThekwini Municipality of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

摘要: Estuaries, the interface of interaction fluvial discharge and marine action serve as temporary repositories materials (solid dissolved) before finally exporting them to sea. This interchange material is dependant on a range factors such those due tidal variation, flows estuarine morphodynamics. The efficacy transfer environment important for health particularly in estuaries located highly developed areas major coastal metropolitan many countries. study assesses this three eThekwini Municipality (TM) city Durban, South Africa which maintains an open mouth status, ensuring exchange through year. net flux nitrates was measured these seasonal basis both spring neap tides. Results indicate that although there export nearshore, were instances, tide, when import into estuary occurred. Data analysis reveal summer tide dominance Tongati Mgeni whilst Isipingo Estuary exhibited larger variance tides season. origin latter likely derived from unusually high biotic decomposition at sea and/or longshore transport decomposing sewage outfall. creates added dimension consideration management plans. Taking all studied consideration, seasons TM with clear influence detected where rainfall led greater consequence flows, erosion leaching agricultural lands and, longer ebb duration flows.