Sediment phosphorus buffering in streams at baseflow: A meta?analysis

Phosphorus (P) pollution of surface waters remains a challenge for protecting and improving water quality. Central to the is understanding what regulates P concentrations in streams. This quantitative review synthesizes literature on major control streams at baseflow—the sediment buffer—to better understand streamwater–sediment interactions. We conducted global meta-analysis equilibrium phosphate net zero sorption (EPC0), which dissolved reactive (DRP) concentration toward sediments buffer solution DRP. Our analysis 45 studies >900 paired observations DRP EPC0 showed that often have potential remove or release streamwater (83% observations), meaning “equilibrium” between rare. exchange moderated by stream characteristics, including affinity, pH, exchangeable concentration, particle sizes. The modify not realized owing other factors (e.g., hydrologic interactions). Sediment chemistry, hyporheic exchange, biota can also influence streamwater. Methodological choices significantly influenced determination thus estimated exchange; we therefore discuss how measure report best suit research objectives aid interstudy comparison. results enhance inform be effectively applied improve management aquatic eutrophication.