Prerequisites for the development of mass balance models of the biogeochemical cycle of mercury in the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

The information presently available on the biogeochemical cycle of mercury in the Mediterranean Sea is reviewed in an attempt to evaluate our state of knowledge, to pinpoint gaps in our understanding and to assess the possibility of establishing mass balance models. The need to promote such models for either the large scale Mediterranean system or individual small scale coastal basins have been discussed. The basic requirements to facilitate the development of mass balance models for both scales were identified.