Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIII
Written by Ana Bianca PAVEL, Florin DUTU, Gabriel IORDACHE, Catalina GAVRILA, Irina CATIANIS, Laura DUTU
The Sulina Branch, situated in the Delta's midpoint, features a distinct straight course requiring continuous dredging for maritime navigation. Stretching 71 km, it conveys 18% of the Romanian lower sector of Danube's water and historically served as a pivotal fluvial transport route, despite navigational challenges posed by sinuosities. It underwent a significant transformation that shortened it by 21.2 km (25.30%), converting it into a nearly straight navigable canal. This led to adverse effects like benthic habitat destruction, increased turbidity, and altered flooding patterns, impacting local ichthyofauna and avifauna. Navigation along the now straight Sulina Branch faced disruptions from sediment shoals at the mouth, due to the synergistic action of fluvial and coastal currents. In spring and autumn 2023, we measured physico-chemical parameters at 30 stations along Sulina Branch and adjacent Meanders, correlating them with bathymetry, water flow, and currents. Clear distinctions were observed, especially between upstream and downstream locations. Oxygen measurements both in spring and autumn, indicated good status water quality. Results demonstrated a good status in water quality at most stations during the study period.
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