Physico-chemical characteristics of the Bahuda estuary (Orissa), east coast of India

All the physico-chemical parameters (transparency, temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and nutrients (nitrite, nitrate, phosphate and silicate)) showed well marked seasonal as well as spatial variations being influenced by monsoon cycle and tidal rhythm. The estuary remained marine dominated during premonsoon (February-June) season, whereas freshwater dominance prevailed during monsoon (July-September). A prominent vertical salinity gradient was noticed during monsoon season.