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Phytosociology and edaphic attributes of mangroves in Chettuwai backwater system, Thrissur, Kerala
A phytosociological and edaphic study was carried out in the mangroves of Chettuwai backwater system in Kerala. Floristic analysis revealed that the vegetation comprised of 12 mangrove species belonging to 10 families. Rhizophora mucronata reported maximum density and basal area, whereas, maximum fr...
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| Format: | Printed Book |
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
2014
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| Online Access: | http://10.26.1.76/ks/005398.pdf |
| Summary: | A phytosociological and edaphic study was carried out in the mangroves of Chettuwai
backwater system in Kerala. Floristic analysis revealed that the vegetation comprised of 12
mangrove species belonging to 10 families. Rhizophora mucronata reported maximum
density and basal area, whereas, maximum frequency was observed in the case of Bruguiera
cylindrica. The entire vegetation looked like a Rhizophora dominated community. The other
floristic elements were represented by Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera cylindrica, Aegiceras
corniculatum, Acanthus illicifolius, Premna latifolia and Derris trifoliatum. Importance value
index was maximum for Rhizophora mucronata. Simpson’s index of diversity was relatively
low (0.54). Zonal distribution of plants was observed with respect to change in edaphic
attributes. Soil was generally acidic in nature. Electrical conductivity and concentration of
available P and K decreased down to the profile. Soil organic carbon and nitrogen did not
vary significantly down to the profile. However, organic C and electrical conductivity
showed significant variation between the zones. Potassium did not show significant variation
between various zones studied. |
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| Physical Description: | Volume 5, No 2, 2014 |