Organic carbon dynamics in shelf edge sediments off the Hebrides: a seasonal perspective

A benthic transect across the Hebridean Shelf Edge was sampled 9 times during 1995-96. Sediment samples from within the surface mixed layer were analysed for organic and inorganic carbon content, porosity, grain size and stable carbon isotope ratio. The organic carbon content is always <1% dry weight. Inorganic carbon content is 17-65% CaCO3. There is no significant seasonal variation in organic or inorganic carbon contents despite changing productivity in the water column. However, there is an inverse relationship between organic carbon content and median grain size. The isotopic composition shows strong seasonal variation which reflects the increase in phytoplankton detritus at the sediment-water interface during spring/summer. The results suggest a small but rapid burial flux. However, the study area is not a significant depocentre for organic carbon.