Abstract: | Repeated samples from the top 5cm of sediment in a homogeneous network of 100 sampling stations in the Barth bodden (mean depth—1.8 m) are analysed for dry weight, organic matter (loss on ignition), grain size distribution, total phosphorus and iron which is soluble in hydrochloric acid. The distribution of mineral and mud sediments (organic matter > 5%) follows the bottom topography: trays, closed basins and channels show the respective muddy concentrations; spits, ground waves and windexposed uplifts from depressions are mostly mineralic. The water depth has only a subordinate effect on distribution. After unquiet meteorological and hydrographic situations mainly the fine-grained material is redistributed. As comparative investigations over four years show, due to this the distribution pattern is not changed fundamentally, so that the distribution of mainly mineralic, muddy and intermediate transition ranges can be mapped, unless this would be done according to surveys under extreme hydrographic and meteorological conditions. The individual parameters of the sediment quality show significant correlations between each other. |