1. This article examines the composition, distribution, and origin of sedimentary organic matter (OM) in the intertidal zone of Ria Formosa lagoon in South Portugal.
2. Analytical pyrolysis (Py-GC/MS) was used to determine the presence of alkyl compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), lignin-derived methoxyphenols, linear alkylbenzenes (LABs), steranes and hopanes in core sediments from three transects along the lagoon.
3. The results indicate that OM inputs to the intertidal environment come from both natural and anthropogenic sources, with algal and aquatic macrophyte derived OM dominating over terrigenous plant sources.
This article is a reliable source of information on the composition, distribution, and origin of sedimentary organic matter (OM) in the intertidal zone of Ria Formosa lagoon in South Portugal. The authors have used analytical pyrolysis (Py-GC/MS) to determine the presence of various compounds such as alkyl compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), lignin-derived methoxyphenols, linear alkylbenzenes (LABs), steranes and hopanes in core sediments from three transects along the lagoon. The results indicate that OM inputs to the intertidal environment come from both natural and anthropogenic sources, with algal and aquatic macrophyte derived OM dominating over terrigenous plant sources.
The article is well written and provides a comprehensive overview of its topic. It is based on sound scientific research methods and provides evidence for its claims through data analysis. The authors have also provided detailed explanations for their findings which makes it easier for readers to understand their conclusions. Furthermore, they have discussed potential biases or limitations associated with their study which adds to its trustworthiness and reliability.
In conclusion, this article is a reliable source of information on sedimentary organic matter inputs to salt marsh sediments of Ria Formosa lagoon in South Portugal.