Sediment and Water physicochemical characterization of Marchica Lagoon (Oriental Rif, Morocco)

¹ Team of Applied Geosciences and Geological Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology of Al-Hoceima, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
² Laboratory of Fiche. National Institute of Fisheries Research, Nador Regional Center, Morocco
³ Laboratory of Oceanographic and Ecosystem Modeling. National Institute of Fisheries Research, Tangier Regional Center, Morocco

Abstract

This study primarily focuses on the environmental assessment of the Marchica lagoon ecosystem. The objective of this research was to determine the ecological effects associated with the development, especially the opening of a new inlet, of the Marchica lagoon on the physicochemical parameters of its liquid phase, geochemical characteristics, as well as the distribution and content of sedimentary substrates. Two sampling campaigns were conducted in February 2023 and May 2023 within the Marchica lagoon to perform a detailed characterization of water physicochemical parameters, including temperature, pH, salinity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll. Additionally, a sedimentological and geochemical analysis of collected sediment samples was performed. The results highlight significant variations in these parameters, both in terms of location and temporal variations. Results of the sedimentological and geochemical study of the sediments are also included for a comprehensive understanding of the impact of management development on the lagoon's ecosystem.