Author(s): Divya.S.Rajan

Abstract: Estuaries are subjected to dramatic short and long term variations. The public must be educated on the ecological value of these resources. Ashtamudi estuary has been designated as a Ramsar site. So in the present study it is proposed to investigate fluctuations in salinity of four selected stations of Thekkumbhagam Creek of Ashtamudi estuary. The study revealed wide fluctuations in salinity that will in turn affect the dissolved oxygen concentration of the estuary. Further these studies will go long way in helping the authorities concerned as well as the local people to take suitable measures needed for restoring the health of this polluted area and in preserving the pristine nature of this creek besides sustainable utilization of its resources. The fisher folk of four Grama Panchayats namely Chavara, Thekkumbhagam, Thevalakkara and Neendakara are benefitting from this bioreserve. The total extent of the fragile lake zone has shrunk to an area of 44.77 Km2 from an original of 53.89 km2. This estuary is one of the foremost centers of marine fish production and landings along the Kerala coast. Many fish species get extinct due to lack of spawning facilities on the banks of the lake due to fortification of the shore of the lake by walls built of laterite and granite stones a perusal of literature shows that no sufficient study was carried out on the eco-biology of Thekkumbhagam Creek of Ashtamudi estuary. The surface water salinity values were found to be lower than that of bottom water. Higher salinity value reaching up to a maximum of 38.09 ppt observed during the month of December may be due to low rainfall, decreased fresh water inflow, land drainage and rise in temperature. Variations in salinity produce changes in species composition, distribution and abundance in an estuary. The investigation also point out the need for a regular monitoring of the salinity fluctuations of the estuary.

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