Estimation of Nutrient Loading and Trophic States in a Coastal Estuary

We investigated nutrient loading and trophic states in a coastal estuarine system in the Asan estuary by assessing phytoplankton biomass and using the trophic index (TRIX). The monthly and yearly nutrient loading (TN, TP) from freshwater discharge from the Asan and Sapgyo reservoirs into the estuary were estimated and analyzed with related factors. Monitoring data (physio-chemical and biological variables) collected at five estuary stations were used to assess trophic states. Descriptive statistics of total phytoplankton cells, chl a concentrations and primary productivity were also used to assess seasonal trophic status. N loading from freshwater ranged $1.0{\sim}1.3{\times}10^4$ ton yearly. The yearly P loading ranged between 350 and 400 ton during 2004~2006, increasing to 570 ton in 2007. Regression results suggest that DIN and DSi were correlated with freshwater discharge at the upper region. Based on phytoplankton biomass and total cell abundance, the trophic state of the estuary was found to be eutrophic during spring due to phytoplankton bloom. Primary productivity level was remarkably high, especially in summer coinciding with high nutrient loading. Pheopigments increased during warm seasons, i.e. summer and fall. Trophic index results indicate that the trophic state varied between mesotrophic and eutrophic in the estuary water body, especially in the upper region. The results suggest that phytoplankton production was regulated by nutrient loading from freshwater whereas biomass was affected by other properties than nutrient loading in the Asan Estuary ecosystem.