DISTRIBUTION OF ORGANIC-CARBON IN THE SEDIMENTS OF COCHIN MANGROVES, SOUTH-WEST COAST OF INDIA

Vertical and horizontal distribution pattern of organic carbon in the mangrove sediments have been studied. Concentration of organic carbon varied from 0.17 to 4.05% in the study area. Correlation and predilect ion between organic carbon and the texture of sediment are elucidated. Organic carbon has a proportional and patent relationship with the fi ner fractions (silt + clay) of the sediment. Inconsistent pattern conc omitant with the inconsistant concentration in accumulation of organic carbon in the sediment with regard to vertical as well as horizontal distribution was discernible in the tidal area of mangrove swamp.