Contribution of the Rhoˆne River to organic carbon inputs to the northwestern Mediterranean Sea

Abstract Particulate and dissolved organic carbon were determined in coastal waters of the Gulf of Lions, during several cruises from 1986. The input by the Rhoˆne River and its seasonal variability are studied and new data are given concerning the contribution to the Mediterranean Sea. Fluorescence measurements show the limited influence on the open sea of surface particulate matter, but suggest a bottom transport during which diagenetic evolution can occur. The remobilization of dissolved organic matter is also stressed.