Organic matter decomposition in intertidal sediments, Hinchinbrook Channel, North Queensland

Four sites (in 2 mud flats and 2 mangrove forests) were sampled in August 1997 (winter) and February 1998 (summer).Data was collected for analyses of sediments, porewater, and solid-phase elements (TOC, total C, total N, etc). Sediment temperature, redox potential and pH were measured.Metal reduction (Fe and Mn) was estimated by using the core incubation method.Sulphate reduction was measured and a two-step distillation procedure was used to determine the fractions of reduced radiolabel in the acid volitile sulphide (AVS=free sulphides, FeS) and chromium-reducible sulphur (CRS=S, FeS2).Denitrification rates were calculated.Fluxes of dissolved oxygen, total CO2, DOC, Fe and Mn were measured.
To examine rates and pathways of organic matter decomposition in sediments during winter and summer.