Characteristics of sediments of Batticaloa lagoon of Sri Lanka during rainy season with special reference to texture and organic matter

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study on spatial variation of texture and organic matter content in bottom sediments of the Batticaloa Lagoon, Sri Lanka. Sediment samples from the Batticaloa Lagoon were collected at 25 different locations during the latter part of rainy season (January 2015 to February 2015) to assess the characteristics of texture and organic matter content in the lagoon bottom sediments. The texture analysis of sediments shows that sand was found to be the major contributor to the sediment texture of the lagoon bed. The average percentage of sand, silt and clay in the Batticaloa Lagoon sediment was 87%, 6% and 7% respectively. Average amount of organic matter in the sediment was found as 2.62%. Total organic matter showed significant positive correlation with silt (r=0.758) and clay (r = 0.775) but significant negative correlation with sand (r = - 0.925). The values of organic matter content do not exceed the acceptable limits (2.56 – 3g per 100g). The present study results of sediments will be a baseline information and useful tool for future researchers for actual assessment of environmental pollution of this lagoon in terms of organic matter content and particle size.