Environmental factors on microalgal resuspension and dynamics in tidal flats on the west coast of Korea

Benthic microalgal resuspension is driven by environmental factors such as wind, rainfall, and tidal currents, exerting substantial influence on coastal ecosystem dynamics. This study examined resuspension processes and microalgal fluxes on tidal flats along the west coast of Korea. Temporal variations in chlorophyll-a concentrations and turbidity were monitored at short intervals over two spring-neap tidal cycles. Tychopelagic diatoms were the dominant microalgal group resuspended into the water column. Strong winds (> 4 m s^-1) and heavy rainfall further enhanced resuspension, while site-specific sedimentary settings and diel cycles affected microalgal flux. The near-equilibrium between inflow and outflow over the tidal cycles highlights a dynamic balance of microalgal biomass exchange between tidal flats and nearshore waters. These findings highlight the importance of environmental factors in shaping microalgal dynamics and their implications for coastal carbon cycling.