Nutrient limitation and interactions with organic matter and sediments within dryland streams of the Pilbara region of northwest Australia

Jordan Iles

Research output: ThesisDoctoral Thesis

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Abstract

This research investigates biogeochemical processes controlling nutrient availability and primary productivity in pools of ephemeral streams of the arid Pilbara region, northwest Australia. I found that phosphorus availability was strongly regulated by interactions with organic matter and the iron-rich sediments that dominate the region. These interactions are in turn mediatedby connectivity to groundwater and pool persistence. Autotroph community structure within pools, particularly of the periphyton, is likely to be sensitive to shifts in both nitrogen and phosphorus availability owing to pool contraction/expansion as a result of climate variation and/or altered discharge patterns associated with mining activities.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationDoctor of Philosophy
Awarding Institution
  • The University of Western Australia
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Pettit, Neil, Supervisor
  • Grierson, Pauline, Supervisor
  • Davies, Peter, Supervisor
Thesis sponsors
Award date8 Apr 2019
DOIs
Publication statusUnpublished - 2019

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