Spatial and temporal variations of current and suspended solid in the sub-tidal and inter-tidal zone at the Head of Ariake Sea

Abstract

Field observations were performed to understand the spatial and temporal variations of current and suspended solid in the sub-tidal and inter-tidal zone of Ariake Sea. The tidal currents are dominant in the sub-tidal and inter-tidal zone of Ariake Sea, while the wind has an important role on generating the residual currents. A large amount of sediment is suspended in the inter-tidal zone and the shallower region of sub-tidal zone due to the combined effect of tidal currents and wind waves. Large variations of Chlorophyll pigments concentration during the neap tide are induced in the sub-tidal zone due to the intrusion of Chlorophyll pigments from the offshore sub-surface layer.