Comprehensive Analysis of Mangrove Soil in Eastern Lagoon National Park of Abu Dhabi Emirate

Abstract

This paper presents comprehensive scientific details about mangrove soil in Eastern Lagoon National Park. A total of 36 sites were studied. From each site, two soil samples were collected for detailed characterization. The results indicate that mangrove soil is fine in texture at surface and coarser at subsurface. Soil salinity exceeds seawater salinity. pHs is dominantly in the neutral range. Soil salinity and sodicity are high due to high Na of the seawater. The high CaCO3 contents in the sediments are due to broken shells. The rich organic matter content is due to fall of mangrove leaves and decomposition. The total N is high compared to the available P. The high available K can be attributed to organic-rich mud. Furthermore, the hypothesis of similar soil characteristics across the study area is tested. The evaluation confirmed the hypothesis. Thus, a management strategy of mangroves is required for the entire study area.