Suspended Matter Distribution in Beypore Estuary
Suspended Matter Distribution in Beypore Estuary
Date
2000
Authors
Nair, M.N. Muraleedharan
Lakshmanan, PT.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Society of Fisheries Technologists (India)Cochin
Abstract
Suspended matter concentration (SMC) in the Beypore Estuary during pre-monsoon
and monsoon periods from ten stations during 1987-1988 are presented. Variations in
suspended matter load at different water levels over the tidal cycles were monitored at one
station. Relatively higher values were obtained during monsoon months compared to premonsoon
period. The highest value of 143 mg.l"1 was observed during September 1987 while
the lowest value of 2 mg.l"1 was obtained during January 1988. Inverse relationship between
suspended matter concentrations and salinity was observed during monsoon months.
However, the relationship did not hold good during post-monsoon and summer months.
Observations during tidal cycles have shown that bottom waters always registered higher
values in suspended matter load, most probably due to the re-suspension of bottom mud
owing to scouring effect of tidal currents. Sediment content was found to co-vary with the
increase in salinity during summer months. Material brought in through river run off
contributes mainly to the suspended matter load in monsoon period while particles of marine
origin have the major share during summer season
Description
Keywords
Suspended matter, Beypore estuary
Citation
Fishery Tech 37(2):130-136