High Frequency Records of Nutrients and Algal Biomass Pigments for Deciphering Biogeochemical Processes in the Loire River (France)

A high temporal hydro-biogeochemical monitoring based on daily discharges and Total Suspended Solids concentrations and on a three-day frequency survey of nutrients (NO3, PO4, SiO2) and algal biomass pigments was carried out during 2012 at three strategic stations in the Loire River. In a context of a strong eutrophication history, this survey aimed at observing temporal variability and deciphering biogeochemical processes at a fine temporal scale such as nutrients uptake by different phytoplankton species, P-limitation, N losses, and the impact of hydrological events on algal biomass.