Physico-Chemical Sediment Properties of Mangroves of Odisha, India

Abstract

The physico-chemical properties of sediments are most likely control the reforestation success as well as the nutrient recycling in mangrove sites. A study of physico-chemical parameters of mangrove sediments of Odisha from five different sampling sites such as Bhitarakanika, Dhamra, Mahanadi, Devi and Budhabalanga was carried out. Different physico-chemical characters such as pH, conductivity, salinity, Organic carbon, alkalinity and total phosphates were analysed. The pH was found to be alkaline i.e., 8.77 ± 0.10 at Budhabalanga whereas slightly acidic i.e., 4.32 ± 0.12 at Devi sampling site of Odisha. Salinity was maximum i.e., 4.63 ± 0.16 PSU at Bhitarakanika whereas minimum i.e., 0.39 ± 0.0.05 PSU at Budhabalanga sampling sites. Organic carbon content was maximum i.e., 51.86 ± 0.11 mg/g at Bhitarakanika site whereas minimum i.e., 6.7 ± 0.12 mg/g at Budhabalanga site. The present study would form a useful tool for further ecological assessment and monitoring of the coastal mangrove ecosystems of Odisha.