Chemical and radiochemical studies of a sediment core from the Tapti salt marsh

Abstract

Radiometric and compositional studies of a gravity core from the Tapti salt marsh region is reported. The sediment accumulation rate of 3 mm/yr. Determined by the 210Pb excess method is indicative of the apparent rate of sea level rise in the region (as a lower limit). The low organic matter content plus seasonal fresh water conditions (during monsoon periods) appear to be responsible for the absence of sulphate reduction in the region. The consequential lack of a sulfur redox cycle thus prevents similar trace metal cycles and sulphide enrichments typical of other salt marshes