Biological Effects of Sand and Gravel Mining in the Lower Bay of New York Harbor: An Assessment from the Literature

摘要

An assessment of potential biological effects of sand and gravel mining in the Lower Bay Complex of New York Harbor is made from the currently available literature concerning distribution and abundance of organisms in the Lower Bay Complex in relation to what is known about effects associated with sand and gravel mining/dredging operations. In particular, the effects of suspended sediments on various organisms are examined. The assessment encompasses suspended sediment effects on benthic infauna (e.g., shellfishes, worms, and other burrowing animals) and epibenthic fauna, including amphipods, crustacea, and demersal fishes. Other effects associated with mining/dredging operations, e.g., release of contaminants and nutrients from sediments are also examined.