Form of Organic Matter in the Muddy Sediments Near Eckernfoerde Bay, Germany

摘要

Organic matter (OM) is one of the most important components in the seafloorsediments in Eckemfoerde Bay, Germany. The GM accounts for up to 10 weight % of sediments in some parts of the Bay. Because GM is relatively low in density and often hydrophilic, its role in defining the sediment structure and microfabric can be significant. Therefore, it is important to understand the form of GM in the sediments. This study was originated under the hypothesis that the GM is either incorporated into the fecal pellets which are abundant in the study area sediments, or coating the surface of sediment particles. The clay-sized particles would provide the most surface are for the GM coating due to their large specific surface area. In order to test the above hypothesis, the relationships among GM contents, fecal pellet contents, and clay contents were examined.