title: Phosphate oxygen isotopes within aquatic ecosystems: global data synthesis and future research priorities.
abstract: The oxygen isotope ratio of dissolved inorganic phosphate (δ(18)Op) represents a novel and potentially powerful stable isotope tracer for biogeochemical research. Analysis of δ(18)Op may offer new insights into the relative importance of different sources of phosphorus within natural ecosystems. Due to the isotope fractionations that occur alongside the metabolism of phosphorus, δ(18)Op could also be used to better understand the intracellular and extracellular reaction mechanisms that control phosphorus cycling. In this review focussed on aquatic ecosystems, we examine the theoretical basis to using stable oxygen isotopes within phosphorus research. We consider the methodological challenges involved in accurately determining δ(18)Op, given aquatic matrices in which potential sources of contaminant oxygen are ubiquitous. Finally, we synthesise the existing global data regarding δ(18)Op in aquatic ecosystems, concluding by identifying four key areas for future development of δ(18)Op research. Through this synthesis, we seek to stimulate broader interest in the use of δ(18)Op to address the significant research and management challenges that continue to surround the stewardship of phosphorus.
authors.affiliation: Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK.
authors.forename: Ceri L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Davies
authors.affiliation: Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK. Electronic address: b.surridge@lancaster.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Ben W J
authors.initials: BWJ
authors.lastname: Surridge
authors.affiliation: British Geological Survey, Maclean Building, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 8BB, UK.
authors.forename: Daren C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Gooddy
mesh_terms: D017753:Ecosystem; D005068:Eutrophication; D005618:Fresh Water / Q000737:chemistry*; D010103:Oxygen Isotopes / Q000032:analysis*; D010710:Phosphates / Q000032:analysis*; D014877:Water Pollution, Chemical / Q000032:analysis* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data
chemical_list: D010103:Oxygen Isotopes; D010710:Phosphates
keywords: Eutrophication; Freshwater; Metabolism; Nutrient sources; Oxygen isotopes; Phosphorus