Evaluation of physical and chemical properties of some selected soils in mangrove swamp zones of Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

In the present investigation the analysis of physical and chemical properties of some selected soils of mangrove swamp in Delta State (Latitude 50 and 60 and 30’ North and longitude 50 and 60, 45’ east) were determined. Hence, representative soil samples were obtained from three locations viz., Koko, Ozoro, Warri (Mangrove swamp) at 0-15cm and 15-30cm depths. The soil samples were analyzed for their physical and chemical properties viz., soil texture (Sand, silt and clay), pH, EC, total organic carbon, available P, Na, K, Mg, Ca⁺, exchangeable acidity (Al³⁺, H⁺), ECEC, OM, Zn, Pb, Fe, Cu and Mn at different study sites. The soil texture of the studied soil samples were primarily recorded as sand and loamy sand, with sandy texture at different study sites. The soils had a pH range of 5.65 to 6.40 at the surface, and were marginal in organic carbon, total nitrogen; exchangeable Ca, Mg, and ECEC, Zn, Fe, Cu whereas the contents of Mn were recorded to be adequate based on the recognized critical levels for the different nutrients. The potassium levels were found to be deficient in the soils. The pH of the soil showed a significant and positive correlation with K(r = +0.35) and Pb (r = +0.43). Total N positively correlated with the organic carbon (r = +0.92) and Fe (r = +0.63). The soils of the study area were mainly sandy loam indicat-ing that the soils will support arable crop production. From the results of the present study it is recommended that the phosphorus and exchangeable potassium should be artificially supplemented to enhance the nutrients in the soil required for the growth and yield of the crop plants.