Spatio- Temporal Variation of Sediment Quality of a River in South India with Special Reference to Organic Carbon Content: A Case Study

Sediment is an imperative part of fresh water systems which comprises loose sand, silt and other soil particles. They provide suitable habitat and rearing areas for fresh water organisms. Temporal and spatial variations in the sediment characteristics from four stations of Achenkovil River, Kerala were studied. Percentage composition of sand varied from 59.01% to 93.48%. Silt composition from 1.10% to 30.36% while clay composition varied from 4.90% to 17.50%. Textural analysis revealed higher percentage of sandy fraction in the sediment at all the stations during most of the months. Organic carbon and sediment texture showed direct relationship at Station 2 and 3. Mean organic carbon of the river ranged from 0.88% (Station 4) to 5.24% (Station 3). Seasonal changes in organic carbon content were evident. Organic carbon was highest during post monsoon at Station 4 and during monsoon at the remaining stations.