Tree Growth and dynamics of mangroves in SW Nigeria.-Biotropica - Data_Figshare.doc

Study Area: Western section of the Niger Delta of NigeriaMethodology:A total of one hundred and twenty sediment samples were collected from twenty quadrats each from the four sites and the control. Twenty quadrats of 20 m by 20 m were located within the creeks surrounding each of the four major rivers linking the hinterland with the Atlantic Ocean. These rivers include the following: Benin River, Forcados River, Escravos River, and Ramos River. Within each quadrat, vegetation measurements (Girth, diameter at breast height, basal area, height, crown diameter, tree density) and sediment sampling were carried out. Sediment sampling was carried out using a sediment core. One hundred and twenty samples from a depth of 0-30 cm, were collected from the sample and control sites. The sediment samples were collected in well labelled bags and laboratory analysis carried out for the following parameters: Particle size composition (Hydrometer method, Bouyoucous 1951), Soil pH, Electrical Conductivity, Organic carbon (Walkey Black combustion method),Total Nitrogen (Kjeldahl method), Phosphorus (Bray-P1 method), Exchangeable cations (Calcium, Sodium, Potassium and Magnesium) flame photometer and atomic absorption spectrophotometer, Exchangeable acidity, Cation Exchangeable Capacity (Summation method), Total Nitrogen (Kjeldahl method). <b></b>Data Analysis: Multiple regression (Dependent variable- Height , Girth), Independent variable( Sediment parameters)