Application of Nitrogen‐Cycle Model to Manasquan Estuary

Abstract

A refined version of an ecologic and water quality mathematical model is applied to a small Atlantic coast estuarine network. The temporal and spatial variations in the water quality of the system are examined through the analysis of the nitrogen cycle developed for estuarine environments. The model is based on the mass conservation of elemental nitrogen in its various biotic and abiotic states. The ecologic model structure contains two trophic levels: primary producers, and herbivorous copepods. A concerted effort is made to derive realistic model‐governing transformations and rate parameters. The hydrodynamic and water quality model simulations are calibrated and verified using short‐term, transient data gathered in the Manasquan Estuary and Point Pleasant Canal. Model verification for abiotic constituents of the nitrogen cycle is achieved, with biotic constituent verification needing more detailed field data. Model results show the influence of transport processes on the temporal and spatial distribution of nitrogen‐cycle constituents in the network examined.