TURBIDITY DISTRIBUTION IN A SUBTROPICAL ESTUARY: THE ESTUARINE COMPLEX OF PARANAGUÁ

Turbidity has an essential role in aquatic systems, controlling phytoplankton biomass and pelagic fauna distribution. Therefore, the objective of this study is to map turbidity in the Estuarine Complex of Paranaguá. Remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) and biogeochemical parameters were measured in situ, on June, 9th, 13th, 16th, 24th, and 30th 2016. Rrs in situ was used to model the relationship between turbidity and Landsat-8 OLI bands which were then applied to the imagery. Results showed that biogeochemical parameters could have been influenced by a harmful algae bloom, and band B4 were suitable for monitoring turbidity (R² = 0.72). The highest turbidity occurred in the delta of Cachoeira river, the inner region of the estuary, the coastal waters, and the north region of the estuarine mouth; in the Laranjeiras Bay, low turbidity was predominant.