The Role of Salt Marsh Structure in the Distribution of Surface Sedimentary Organic Matter

摘要: This study examines spatial variability in sedimentary organic matter (OM). A total of 25 surface sediment samples were analyzed from two transects across a 0.5-km2 salt marsh island; one transect traverses relatively old and the other mix new marsh. We use elevation distance to creek head as geomorphic proxies associate them with abundance (carbon, nitrogen) isotopic/molecular composition constituents (i.e., lignin). Statistically significant linear correlations observed between OM content, suggesting likely influence. However, trend was positive for older negative Hence, sampling at or near levees can give rise factor 5–8 difference content. Also, opposing trends provenance having greater contributions marine algae allochthonous predominantly autochthonous signature. Further, these data reveal scales content composition, ~101 m ~103 m. ascribe 101-m scale effect structure, while 103-m is related differences local nutrient input preservation due source accumulation rates processes sites.