The interplay between hydrological flushing and biogeochemical cycling in a 3rd order stream

Abstract

<p>High-resolution water quality data obtained with <em>in situ</em> sensors and analysers coupled to flow discharge records can reveal critical information on hydrochemical and biogeochemical functioning of aquatic ecosystems. In this study we explore a rich high-resolution hydrochemical dataset to synthesise the impact of hydrological flushing and biogeochemical cycling on water quality in a 3^rd order groundwater-fed stream draining an agricultural catchment dominated by grassland.Our results show that despite large storm to storm diversity in hydrochemical responses, storm event magnitude and timing have a critical role in controlling the type of mobilisation, flushing and cycling behaviour. These results can be used to evaluate pollution risks in streams and their effects on freshwater quality.</p>