Distribution of Seagrass (Enhalus acoroides) and Relationship with Environmental Factors at Kung Krabaen Bay, Chanthaburi Province

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate distribution of seagrass Enhalus acoroides and relationship between distribution of seagrass, organic matter, soil texture and environmental parameter at Kung Krabaen Bay, Chanthaburi Province. Samples and environmental data had been collected on July 2014. Line transect had been used for data survey and collection.  Result of the study showed that E. acoroides had distributed at south part of the study area.  The average percentages of sand:silt:clay were 73:24:3.0, 71:26:3 and 70:27:3, respectively. The average of organic matters at eastern, central and western parts of study area were 0.85±0.41,  0.72±0.33 and 0.81±0.28%, respectively. The correction coefficients between distribution of seagrass and organic matter, distribution of seagrass and percentage of sand, distribution of seagrass and percentage of silt, distribution of seagrass and percentage of clay, distribution of seagrass and ORP and distribution of seagrass and pH were 0.0224, -0.17, 0.0295, 0.361, -0.0908 and 0.0878, respectively. Consequences of this study can applied for integrated management of seagrass and abundance of coastal ecosystem for maximum benefit of resources utilization at Kung Krabaen Bay of people in this area.