The Linkage between Natural Vegetation, Water Dynamics and Pyrite （FeS2） Oxidation in Tidal Lowlands

The research aimed to analyze the linkage between natural vegetation, water dynamics and pyrite （FeS2） oxidation in tidal lowlands. The research was carried out in tidal lowland Pulau Rimau, South Sumatra from February to December 2010. The field observations are done by exploring several transect on land units. The field description refers to Soil Survey Staff. Water and soil samples were taken from selected key areas for laboratory analyses. The vegetation data were collected by making sample plots placed on each vegetation type with plot sizes 10 m × 10 m for secondary forests and 5 m × 5 m for shrubs and grass. The observations of surface water level were done during the river receding with units of meter above sea level （m.asl）. The results shows that pyrite formation is largely determined by the availability of natural vegetation as S （sulfur） donors, climate and uncontrolled water balance and supporting faunas such as crabs and mud shrimp. Climate and water balance as well as supporting faunas is the m