Assessing the P fractionation in a tropical river-estuarine system of South India

Seasonal variations in dissolved and particulate P forms were assessed in the estuarine system of Chalakudy River, Kerala, South India – a tropical river having substantial relics of riparian vegetation. The contribution of the reactive P form extended to 84–96% compared with the residual fraction. Geographical and human activities have had effects on the phosphorus-loading capacity at various locations, which reveal pronounced variability in P distribution. Not all forms of phosphate in suspended particulate matter are likely to be released, and thus the nature of the P forms within the stock is a sensitive factor that can be utilised. Ca-bound P in suspensates increases to a highly significant level in the estuarine area, whereas Fe/Al-bound P predominates at the riverine and catchment areas during both the monsoon and non-monsoon seasons. Thus, calcium compounds determine the availability of P in the alkaline estuarine environment, whereas in the riverine environment, Al and Fe control P solubility. The comparatively low P load in upstream waters indicates that, under ambient situations, vegetative riparian zones can be very important P filters.