Spatial heterogeneity of physical ad chemical variables in the sediment of Setiu Wetland during monsoon and non-monsoon season

Abstract

Study the spatial heterogeneity of physical and chemical variables of sediment in wetland is a study of the soil quality. In recent years, the wetlands have increasingly become subject to economic pressures resulting in widespread wetland clearing for aquaculture expansion. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the status of physical and chemical elements of the soil affected by the aquaculture pond. This study also find for any changes between two seasons which are non-monsoon (summer) and monsoon (rainy season). The value range for porosity during non monsoon is 31 % to 49%; and 36% to 55% during monsoon. Particle density is inversely related to porosity and the value range from 2.18 g/cm3 to 5 .31 g/cm3 for both seasons which are higher than the standard value, 2.65 g/cm3. For bulk density, the analysis between two seasons is not much different; range from 0.99 g/cm3 to 1.54 g/cm3 • Soil textural is variably found during summer and only sandy loam was identified in monsoon sample. Besides, the moisture value is unevenly distributed. The lowest percentage is 0.05% and the highest is 11.84% for both seasons. Meanwhile, in summer time the pH is around 7 to 8; and around 7 to 7.9 in monsoon which are basic. The percentage of organic carbon rise from 1.71 % (non-monsoon) to 2.75% (monsoon) in average rate. The same condition occurs for nitrogen. The highest value of organic carbon and nitrogen was observed nearby to aquaculture cage.