Flood plumes in the Great Barrier Reef : spatial and temporal patterns in composition and distribution

摘要: Protecting water quality in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area is recognised as one of major challenges facing management area. One most important processes directly impacting (GBR) input terrestrially derived nutrients and sediments to nearshore regions. This mainly occurs via river run-off, especially during periods intense rainfall typically associated with tropical cyclones. Flood plumes occur at a time when majority inputs into GBR lagoon are at peak concentrations reefs other inshore marine ecosystems then experience highest of pollutants. The principal threat reef arises from changes composition riverine discharge due changed land use on coastal catchments. The characteristics plume water, including salinity, nutrients, sediment toxicants pose a range potential threats health ecosystems.