The geometric features, shape factors and fractal dimensions of suspended particulate matter in the Scheldt estuary (Belgium)

Water samples from the Scheldt estuary were collected in three fractions: ( a) unfiltered water, (b) water filtered through a 50 mu m net and (c) water filtered through a 300 mu m net. Particles easily recognisable from the ma jority of the amorphous particles were isolated and their geometric dimensi ons measured. From the measurements, shape factors were calculated. Measure ment of fractal dimensions was attempted. From the first fraction, the part icles isolated and measured were circular and chained diatoms. In the secon d fraction, zooplankters were easily distinguishable and representatives of the three dominant groups (cladocerans, cyclopoids and calanoids) were mea sured. In the third fraction, detrital pieces from monocotyledon and dicoty ledon plants were recognised, isolated and measured. Fractal dimensions wer e only measurable in particles from fraction 3. The geometric features, sha pe factors and fractal dimensions of the particles were tested and proven t o be effective 'fingerprints' to distinguish these particles from the major ity of the unidentifiable amorphous particles in the samples. (C) 1999 Acad emic Press.