Vol. 8, Issue 7 (2019)

Author(s):
Dr. F Esther Isabella Eucharista

Abstract:
Estuary as a complex system receives huge quantity of dissolved chemical input from a number of sources as runoffs through the course of river. In addition, it is well known that human activities like industrialization, urbanization, tourism and domestic waste are affecting to the water quality. The punnaikayal estuary located within the Thoothukudi district with Latitude 8o38’19.2” N Long 78o 07’ 09.8” E. The parameters such as pH (7.97 ± 0.32), Calcium (1440±36.44 mg/l) and Magnesium (528±36.22 mg/l) were revealed highest concentrations during March, while salinity (22.56± 0.57g/l) during January and TDS (37590±451.774 g/l) in February. In general estuary water was good and maintains stable and healthy aquatic ecosystem. The mean values recorded for all the parameters could support aquatic life. This study helps to know the various factors influencing these ecosystems and there by conservation measures are initiated in collaboration with local NGO’s for protection of these mangrove swamps.