Seston refers to the suspended matter found in bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, or oceans. It consists of microscopic and larger organisms, as well as detritus and other particles that float or are suspended in the water column. This organic matter plays a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, as it forms the base of the food chain and provides nourishment for many aquatic organisms.
The composition of seston can vary significantly depending on the location and the surrounding environment. It may include algae, plankton, bacteria, small invertebrates, plant material, and other organic particles. These organisms and particles are often observed under a microscope and enumerated to understand the overall health and productivity of the aquatic ecosystem.
Seston can be measured through water sampling techniques, such as filtering a known volume of water and analyzing the collected material. It is usually expressed in terms of concentration (e.g., milligrams per liter) or biomass (e.g., grams per square meter).
Understanding the composition and dynamics of seston is essential for studying water quality, assessing the impact of pollution and eutrophication, predicting algal blooms, and monitoring the overall ecological health of aquatic systems. Seston also serves as an important parameter for ecological modeling, fisheries management, and understanding carbon cycling in water bodies.
