Seasonal Distribution of Organic Carbon in the Surface Sediments of the Terengganu Nearshore Coastal Area

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doi:10.3844/ajessp.2009.111.115

Abstract

Problem statement: The distribution of organic carbon in the surface sediment is a crucial indicator for current productivity in the ocean especially in the nearshore area. The difference of organic carbon in the surface sediment reflects the influence of current movement on the bottom sediment. Approach: This study was carried out to oversee the difference of organic carbon distribution during pre and post-monsoon seasons. For the purpose of the study, 42 surface sediments in the Terengganu near shore area were collected and determined for organic carbon by using the wet dichromate acid method. Results: The concentration of organic carbon was significantly different between the seasons showing a relatively higher content during pre-monsoon seasons. In this study, the average concentration of organic carbon in pre-monsoon was 1.14±0.29% and varied from 0.60-1.80%. Meanwhile during post-monsoon seasons, the average concentration of organic carbon was slightly lower to 0.82±0.23% and ranged from 0.24-1.32%. Conclusion: Generally, the average concentration of organic carbon in South China Sea was low compared to the occurrence in riverine environment as well as the mangrove environment.

Highlights

Terengganu water experienced the semi annual reversal in the wind system and the reversal in the current flow, in the upper layer of the ocean
High organic carbon concentrations could be primarily caused by the river run-off, which seem to have been the main supply of organic matter into the coastal area
Low organic carbon concentration in the study area may be due to the sediment grain size which was dominated by moderately coarse sand

Summary

Introduction

Terengganu water experienced the semi annual reversal in the wind system and the reversal in the current flow, in the upper layer of the ocean Due to this reason, a north east monsoon season and a south east monsoon season, can be clearly distinguished in the South China Sea. Due to this reason, a north east monsoon season and a south east monsoon season, can be clearly distinguished in the South China Sea Their coastal near shore areas are active sites where huge amount of organic matter is introduced into the ocean system through river runoff, in situ primary production and anthropogenic impacts. Different factors may control the partitioning and the bioavailability of the hydrophobic organic compound pollutants within the benthic ecosystem. Through the processes of sediment resuspension and redistribution, organic matter at the sediment-water interface may be a significant source of remineralizable materials

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