Sediments as a Source of Iron, Manganese, Cobalt and Nickel to Continental Shelf Waters (Louisiana, Gulf of Mexico)

Continental shelf sediments are a key source of trace metals to the ocean. In this study, we investigate impact sedimentary processes on water column concentrations iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), and nickel (Ni) at five stations Louisiana continental slope, Gulf Mexico. The highest metal were observed close seafloor most nearshore station (water depth 16 m), with present in particulate form. This enrichment bottom is likely combined effect input suspended matter from Mississippi/Atchafalaya Rivers and, for Mn, Co, Ni, benthic release sediments. While was dominant carrier Fe Mn waters slope regions, Co Ni nearly exclusively dissolved Hence, lateral transport decoupled that Mn. Concentrations generally decreased while those sediment increased. suggests an increased retention deposited distance coast, linked decrease organic associated reductive processes. offshore decline mobilization typical river-dominated margins where coast.