Introduction to the application of paleoecological techniques in estuaries

Modern estuaries are naturally dynamic coastal environments that grade from the freshwater of a riverine ecosystem to the salt water of the ocean. The geographic location and the latitudinal climate setting determine the variability within an estuary, and the unique combinations of tides, waves and wind regimes, with the impinging ocean currents, create the dynamic physical and chemical environment. Variability in the estuarine environment can range across diurnal to decadal time scales. Within this setting reside highly diverse ecosystems containing rich biological resources adapted to the constantly changing environment.