Nutrients of the Cochin backwater in relation to environmental characteristics

Abstract

The nutrient distribution of the Cochin Backwater was studied at 6 stations throughout the year The depth profiles of phosphorus (inorganic and organic), nitrogen (nitrate and nitrite) and silicon, showed a marked seasonal rhythm, induced by the local precipitation and land runoff Changes in other environmental features such as temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH and alkalinity were small during the pre-monsoon period when the system remains marine-dominated, and large during the monsoon period when the estuary becomes freshwater-dominated Seasonal changes in the hydrographical conditions of the adjoining coastal waters of the Arabian Sea which influence the backwater system have been discussed