BioGeochemical PARTicle interactions and feedback loops on the Belgian Continental Shelf - BG-PART (BG-PART)

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) is a key determinant of biological processes, ecosystem functioning and biogeochemical fluxes in coastal ecosystems. While SPM dynamics is primarily controlled by hydrodynamic forcing and the physical and chemical properties of the particles, it is becoming increasingly clear that biological activity also affects the size and settling of particle aggregates. The release of exopolymeric substances (EPS) by phytoplankton and the formation of sticky marine gels will stimulate flocculation, while bacterial mineralisation and grazing can break down the flocs. To date however, in contrast to the open ocean, little is known about the relative importance of physical and biological processes for SPM dynamics in highly productive yet turbid shallow coastal areas. This seriously hampers our ability to predict the impact of climate change and anthropogenic activities on the future integrity and habitability of these systems. With BG-PART, we aim to assess the importance of interactions and feedback mechanisms between biological activity and sediment mineralogy for SPM dynamics and ecosystem functioning on the Belgian Continental Shelf (BCS).