For the first time, this study estimates the interannual and monthly variabilities of nutrient fluxes (nitrate – NO₃⁻) and total phosphorus – TP) in the lower Mekong River and Tonle Sap River in Cambodia, and assesses the nutrient linkage between the them. The results of the nutrient exchange budget indicated that the NO₃⁻ and TP fluxes from the Mekong River into Tonle Sap Lake were ~ 35.8 ± 12.5 kt/y and ~ 8.7 ± 3.3 kt/y, respectively, while these were 34.0 ± 13.8 kt/y and 6.6 ± 1.4 kt/y, respectively, from Tonle Sap Lake into the Mekong system. The results demonstrate that the Mekong River is a vital nutrient source, especially during the flood season, to Tonle Sap Lake and its floodplain.

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