Investigating the endogenous sediment infilling by the calcareous macroalgae Halimeda opuntia in Lac Bay, Bonaire

Student report 

Coastal lagoon ecosystems are transitional waters, that provide important ecological features and deliver valuable services to mankind. However, due to their geographical positioning at the coast line and physical restrictions, coastal lagoon ecosystems are highly vulnerable towards environmental and anthropogenic stressors. Terrestrial sediment influx and the endogenous sediment productioncan lead to the infilling of a lagoon. In this study the calcareous algae Halimeda species was investigated and the CaCO3 sediment contribution of Halimeda opuntia on the endogenous infilling of Lac Bay, Bonaire determined.

For more information, contact marijke.heemstra@hvhl.nl