Why would pesticide levels be higher in the Bay of Fundy then they would in the Atlantic ocean?
Bobpursley already answered you. The Bay of Fundy, a small body of water, has a lot of rivers that flow into it. The pesticides come from factories and farms that are inland from the Bay.
BUT, no bodies of water flow into the Bay of Fundy...other than the Atlantic ocean.
Yes. Rivers flow into the Bay of Fundy.
http://encarta.msn.com/map_701510917/bay_of_fundy.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bay_of_Fundy
Pesticide levels can vary in different bodies of water depending on various factors. In the case of the Bay of Fundy, there are a few reasons why pesticide levels might be higher compared to the Atlantic Ocean:
1. Proximity to agricultural activity: The Bay of Fundy is surrounded by agricultural areas where pesticides are commonly used. Pesticides sprayed on crops can be washed off by rainwater and carried through rivers and streams into the bay, leading to higher levels of pesticides compared to the Atlantic Ocean, which may not receive as much runoff from agricultural areas.
2. Limited water exchange and flushing: The Bay of Fundy has a unique geographical shape, which limits the exchange of water with the open ocean. This reduced water exchange can result in pesticides becoming more concentrated over time, as they are not as quickly diluted or flushed out of the bay. In contrast, the Atlantic Ocean has a larger volume of water and greater water circulation, leading to more efficient dilution and dispersion of pesticides.
3. Presence of sediments: The Bay of Fundy has a high sediment load due to strong tides and currents. Pesticides can bind to these sediments, resulting in higher levels in the bay compared to the open ocean. The Atlantic Ocean, with its larger body of water and lower sediment load, may have lower pesticide levels as a result.
To determine the specific pesticide levels in the Bay of Fundy and the Atlantic Ocean, scientific monitoring and sampling are required. Environmental monitoring agencies or research institutions collect water samples at various locations and measure pesticide concentrations using specialized analytical techniques. These data help identify trends, assess potential ecological impacts, and inform management strategies to mitigate pesticide pollution.