CAPE Environmental Science IA Unit 1

A STUDY OF FOUR COASTAL
ECOSYSTEMS IN TRINIDAD
NAME: SHARANA MOHAMMED
SUBJECT: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE I.A. UNIT 1
SCHOOL: PRINCES TOWN WEST SECONDARY
YEAR: 2014 - 2015

Table of Contents
Acknowledgements ...........................................................................................................................1
Map of Trinidad ...............................................................................................................................2
Introduction......................................................................................................................................3
Scope.............................................................................................................................................3
Purpose.........................................................................................................................................3
Objectives .....................................................................................................................................4
Literature Review.............................................................................................................................5
Methodology...................................................................................................................................12
Restate Project Objectives...........................................................................................................12
Activities and Data Collection.....................................................................................................12
Laboratory Tests.........................................................................................................................13
Presentation and Analysis...............................................................................................................15
Activities Pollution and Species Diversity....................................................................................15
Laboratory Tests.........................................................................................................................18
Discussions of Findings ...................................................................................................................23
Conclusions.....................................................................................................................................25
Recommendations...........................................................................................................................26
Bibliography...................................................................................................................................27
Appendices .....................................................................................................................................28
Appendix 1..................................................................................................................................28
Appendix 2..................................................................................................................................29
Appendix 3..................................................................................................................................32
Site Visits........................................................................................................................................35
Laboratory Entries .........................................................................................................................47

1
Acknowledgements
Completing this IA gave me a sense of fulfilment and I would like to thank the following people
for their contributions. Firstly, I would like to thank God for giving me wisdom and the serenity
needed in completing this project. My gratitude goes to my Environmental Science teacher for
his guidance and assistance in completing this project diligently. Sincere thanks go to my parents
for supporting me and giving me much needed help when necessary. Lastly, I pay gratitude to
the authors of the various websites via the internet services which allowed me to obtain vital
information needed for this Internal Assessment.
.

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Map of Trinidad
Map 1: Showing the locations of all Site Visited.
1 Coastal Site A 3 Coastal Site C
2 Coastal Site B 4 Coastal Site D
C
D
B
A

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Introduction
An ecosystem comprises abiotic and biotic components as well as their interactions in the
community. Ecosystems are defined according to their unique climate. Due to this, they are
divided into different types, including – forest, grassland, desert, tundra, mountain, marine and
aquatic ecosystems. However, in Trinidad, the main ecosystems present are forest, grassland, and
mountain, marine and aquatic ecosystems.
Additionally, the main and most important type of ecosystem present in Trinidad is the coastal
ecosystem. A coastal ecosystem is a combination of various ecosystems. It is defined as the area
whereby the land meets the ocean, encompassing the shoreline ecosystems as well as the
adjacent aquatic waters. Coastal ecosystems are a natural resource and are important in many
islands, including Trinidad because they provide a range of goods and services that are integral
to the sustainable development of these islands. These services include transportation and
shipping via the ports, fishing as a source of food and, recreation. Furthermore, in Trinidad, the
north eastern, eastern and south eastern coastal zones are essential as they form habitats for
various species of plants and animals. These areas also provide a breeding ground for the
endangered leather back turtles.
This study focuses mainly on four coastal ecosystems in Trinidad. In order for these areas to
remain unambiguous, pseudo names were given to them. They are – Coastal ecosystem A,
Coastal ecosystem B, Coastal ecosystem C and Coastal ecosystem D.
Scope
This study is focused on four coastal ecosystems, located in different areas in Trinidad. This is
done to recognize the variations in these coastal ecosystems so a comparison among them can be
made as it pertains to the anthropogenic impact on the environment.
Purpose
Coastal ecosystems play an important role in Trinidad. They provide sustenance to many
communities in Trinidad and Tobago as well as host many habitats for various species of plants
and animals. It is crucial that these areas be protected as coastal ecosystems play an important
role in the cycling of nutrients and flora for rich biodiversity in our country. Coastal ecosystems
provide a natural balance of life. As such, the purpose of this study is to recognize the services of
four coastal ecosystems and to investigate and compare the anthropogenic impacts of each of
these coastal ecosystems in Trinidad.

4
Objectives
1. To investigate the biodiversity of four coastal ecosystems in Trinidad
2. To assess, identify and compare the various anthropogenic impacts of each site
3. To determine the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and determine if the levels are
comparable to unpolluted coastal zones. Other physicochemical parameters that maybe
helpful include :
a. Temperature
b. pH
c. Turbidity
d. Total Solids
e. Total Phosphates
f. Nitrates
g. Alkalinity

5
Literature Review
Biodiversity is the variety of species in an ecosystem, biome, or the entire planet. It is important
for ecosystems to be stable because stability in ecosystems aid in preventing the ecosystem from
being affected in the event of a disturbance and also helps in making the ecosystem resilient to
change. Therefore, to make an ecosystem stable, there must be an equal and vast number of
species. As such, the more diverse the species in an ecosystem are, the more stable the ecosystem
will be. (Cleland, 2011) Coastal ecosystems provide many services to man and habitats for
various plants and animals. Therefore, a rich biodiversity of a coastal ecosystem is necessary to
preserve its stability and integrity.
The biodiversity in an ecosystem must be measured in order to obtain a knowledge of the
different species which make up the ecosystem. To measure the biodiversity, many sampling
methods are present in the literature. The different sampling methods are – random sampling,
systematic sampling, stratified sampling and capture-mark-release. (Ecological Sampling
Methods , 2000) From the literature many of the sampling methods used for biodiversity in
coastal ecosystems were systematic, while other researchers used random and stratified.
However, Richard Coe, an employee at the World Agroforestry Centre, indicated that these will
not provide a rich comparison of the biodiversity in the area and recommended that a systematic
method will provide a much better result. (Coe, 2008)
This study focuses on four main coastal ecosystems – A, B, C and D. Coastal ecosystem A is
located on the South Eastern part of Trinidad and has a population of approximately 2300
persons. In the community where this ecosystem is found, the natural resources are oil and gas,
with 20 percent of its workforce employed in the energy industry, while its human resources are
agriculture and fishing, with 25 percent employed in agriculture and 30 percent in fishing. In the
community, there is also a health centre, a primary and secondary school and two recreation
grounds for use in the community. (Khan, 2010)
Coastal ecosystem B is located on the Eastern side of Trinidad and is considered one of the
largest villages in Trinidad. The village has a population of 48,000 persons. (Mayaro Rio Claro
Regional Corporation, 2011) In the community where this ecosystem is found, the natural
resources are oil and gas, with 35 percent of its workforce employed in the energy industry,
while its human resources are agriculture, fishing and commerce, with 25 percent employed in
agriculture and 30 percent in fishing. (MEP Publishers (Media & Editorial Projects Ltd) ,
2013) In the community, there is also a health centre, a primary and secondary school, banks, a
market, several shopping centres and four recreation grounds for use in the community.
Coastal ecosystem C is a small village which is located on the South Western Peninsula of
Trinidad and has a population of 1,107 persons. In the community where this ecosystem is found,
the natural resources are oil and gas, with 55 percent of its workforce employed in the energy
industry, while its human resources are agriculture, fishing and commerce, with 30 percent
employed in agriculture and 40 percent in fishing. In the community, there are three primary

6
schools, and a secondary school and a community centre. (New community centre to be opened
in Vessigny, 2014)
Coastal ecosystem D is located on the North Western Peninsula of Trinidad and has a population
of 885 persons. The community where this ecosystem is found was originally used for
agriculture and the land-use transitioned from sugar cultivation to cocoa to citrus, then to
coffee and nutmeg. It was also used as an American military base during the period of World
War 1. Currently, this community is used mainly as a tourist attraction with attractions such as a
beach, a military museum and a national park. (Things To Do In Chaguaramas Bay Peninsula,
n.d.) About 65% of its population employed in the tourism industry.
Water, via its physical, chemical and biological characteristics, plays an important role in the
sustenance of the earth’s biotic components. However, over the years, man has had a huge
impact on water quality via their unscrupulous practices of misusing the areas in and around
water bodies for unethical activities. These include the discharge of domestic, municipal,
industrial and other factors like religious offerings, recreational and constructional activities in
coastal areas.
As a result of these impacts, the physicochemical characteristics of water are greatly affected
since these impacts cause alterations to the natural balance of water due to the foreign substances
injected into it. As such, water quality tests are done to quantitatively determine the
anthropogenic impacts on the environment. (Singh,Sanamacha Meetei,&BijenMeitei,2012)
These test were –
a. Biochemical Oxygen Demand
b. Temperature
c. pH
d. Turbidity
e. Nitrates
f. Total Solids
g. Total Phosphates
h. Alkalinity

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Biological Oxygen Demand
Dissolved oxygen is the form of oxygen accessible to aquatic organisms. Oxygen is vital to
aquatic species as they use it to build energy through respiration. In a “healthy” body of water,
oxygen is replenished quicker than it’s used by aquatic organisms. However, in some bodies of
water, aerobic bacteria decompose such a vast volume of organic material, that oxygen is
depleted from the water faster than it can be replaced. The resulting decrease in dissolved oxygen
is known as the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).
Vital nutrients, for example nitrates and phosphates, which stimulate aquatic plant and algae
growth, are released via decomposition. If the load of decomposing organic material is excessive,
dissolved oxygen levels can be critically diminished. In a body of water with substantial amounts
of decaying organic material, the dissolved oxygen levels may decline by 90%, this would
represent a high BOD. This can be widely impacted by human pollution and therefore needs to
be monitored. Table 1 shows the effect of various levels of BOD in the water.
Table 1 – The interpretation of BOD Levels
BOD Level (mg/L) Status
1-2 Clean water with little organic waste.
3-5 Moderately clean water with some organic waste.
6-9 Lots of organic material and bacteria.
10-20 Very poor water quality. Large amounts of
organic material in the water common to treated
sewage.
20-100 Untreated sewage or high levels of effluents from
industries or high levels of erosion.
>100 Extreme conditions. Siltation and stationary water.

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Temperature
Thermal pollution, caused by human activities, is one factor that can affect water temperature.
Water temperatures outside the standard range for a beach can cause harm to the aquatic
organisms that live there. Due to this reason, the temperature of the water over a section of a
beach is measured. Table 2 shows the cause and effect relationship with changes in temperature.
Table 2 – The causes and effects of changes in water temperature
Changes in Water Temperature
Causes Effects
- Air Temperature - Solubility of dissolved oxygen
- Amount of shade - Rate of plant growth
- Soil erosion from increasing turbidity - Metabolic rate of organisms
- Thermal pollution from human
activities
- Resistance in organisms
pH
Aquatic organisms are extremely fragile to the pH of their environment. If the pH of the environment
in which these organisms live is not between their optimum ranges, these species may become
endangered as they won’t be able to survive and reproduce. Therefore, the measure of the pH of a
body of water is very important as an indication of water quality. The factors that affect pH
can be seen in Table 3.
Table 3 – Factors that affect pH levels
Factors Affecting pH Levels
- Acidic rainfall
- Algal blooms
- Level of hard-water minerals
- Releases from industrial
processes
- Carbonic acid from
respiration or decomposition
- Oxidation of sulphides in
sediments

9
Turbidity
The measure of water’s lack of clarity is known as Turbidity. Water with high turbidity is
cloudy, whereas water with low turbidity is clear. A high turbidity is as a result of light reflecting
off of particles in the water thus resulting in the cloudiness. As such, the more particles in the
water, the higher the turbidity. Also, the rate of photosynthesis will decrease due to this because
a high turbidity will decrease the amount of sunlight that’s able to penetrate the water.
Additionally, reduced clarity causes the water to be less aesthetically appealing. Even though this
isn’t directly detrimental, it is definitely unacceptable for many water uses. When the water is
cloudy, sunlight will warm it more efficiently because the suspended particles in the water
absorb the sunlight, warming the surrounding water. This may lead to many issues linked to
increased temperature levels. Therefore, the Turbidity of a beach needs to be measured to
guarantee it doesn’t produce unwanted effects as shown in Table 4.
Table 4 – The sources and effects of turbidity in coastal waters
Change in Water Temperature
Source Effect
- Soil erosion – silt & clay - Reduces water clarity
- Urban runoff - Aesthetically displeasing
- Industrial waste – sewage treatment effluent
particulates
- Decreases photosynthetic rate
- Abundant bottom dwellers – stirring up sediments - Increases water temperature
- Organics – microorganisms & decaying plants &
animals
Total Solids
A measure of all the suspended, colloidal, and dissolved solids in a sample of water is known as
Total solids, TS. This includes dissolved salts for example, sodium chloride, NaCl, and solid
particles such as silt and plankton. Total solids have the same impacts as Turbidity and can be
described in Table 4.

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Total Phosphates
Phosphorus is a vital nutrient for all aquatic plants and algae. However, only a minute amount is
necessary, therefore, an excess can easily occur. An excess amount is classified as a pollutant as
it results in eutrophication, the condition whereby there’s an excessive richness in nutrients, such
as phosphorous, which results in increased plant and algal growth. Eutrophication can lower the
levels of dissolved oxygen in the water and can make the water uninhabitable by many aquatic
organisms. Phosphorus is frequently the limiting factor that controls the extent of eutrophication
that occurs. Table 5 shows the sources and effects of phosphate levels in water.
Table 5 – The sources and effects of phosphate levels in water
Phosphate levels
Source Effect
- Human and animals wastes - High levels of – eutrophication,
increased algal bloom, increased BOD,
decreased DO
- Industrial wastes - Low levels – limiting factor in plant and
algal growth
- Agricultural runoff
- Human disturbance of land
Nitrates
Nitrates are an essential source of nitrogen required by plants and animals to synthesize amino
acids and proteins. Nitrate pollution, caused by fertilizer runoff and concentration of livestock in
feedlots, has become a major ecological issue in some agricultural areas. Table 6 shows the
sources of nitrate ions in surface water.
Table 6 – Sources of Nitrate Ions
Sources of Nitrate Ions
- Agriculture runoff
- Urban runoff
- Animal feedlots and barnyards
- Municipal and industrial wastewater
- Automobile and industrial emissions
- Decomposition of plants and animals

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Alkalinity
A measure of how much acid water can neutralize is known as the Alkalinity of water. Alkalinity
acts as a buffer, protecting water and its life forms from immediate changes in pH. This ability to
neutralize acid, is especially essential in regions affected by acid rain, or industries that
contribute to surface acidity of surface water. Table 7 shows the effect of alkalinity to surface
water.
Table 7 – The effects of alkalinity levels
Effects of Alkalinity Levels
- Buffers water against sudden changes in
pH
- Protects aquatic organisms from sudden
changes in pH

12
Methodology
Restate Project Objectives
comparable to unpolluted coastal zones. Other physicochemical parameters that maybe
helpful include :
a. Temperature
b. pH
c. Turbidity
d. Nitrates
e. Total Solids
f. Total Phosphates
g. Alkalinity
Activities and Data Collection
For this study, four coastal ecosystems were visited at the North, South, East and West parts of
Trinidad. The class was divided into three groups which consisted of three students each. I
belonged to Group 1 and the other two members of my group were – Allison Cardinez and
Amara Khan. Each coastal ecosystem was also divided into three parts and each group was
assigned to a particular site to assess. Part of this assessment was done in the form of an informal
site survey whereby the anthropogenic impacts on the environment was determined by the level
of visual pollution seen and also in terms of the alterations made on the environment by man, for
example, in the form of construction.
The other part of the assessment was done in the form of Systematic Sampling as it was deemed
to be most appropriate for this study. Systematic sampling entails taking samples at fixed
intervals and this involves the use of either a line or belt transect. However, the belt transect

13
method was used as it was more suitable for this study because it gave information on species
abundance.
At each site, each of the three groups placed quadrats in a linear pattern, forming a continuous
“belt”, recording the percentage of plant and animal species found in each quadrat along with the
level of pollution found in each. This was done continuously until the least number of quadrat
readings totalled to be 20. The groups then pooled their results together in order to find the total
species diversity for each site.
Lastly, water samples were collected from each site and water quality tests were done on these
samples. This is because, over the years, man has had a huge impact on water quality via their
unscrupulous practices of misusing the areas in and around water bodies for unethical activities.
As a result of these impacts, the physicochemical characteristics of water are greatly affected
since these impacts cause alterations to the natural balance of water due to the foreign substances
injected into it. As such, water quality tests were done to quantitatively determine the
anthropogenic impacts on the environment.
Laboratory Tests
Water quality tests will give information about the “health” of the coastal waters. By testing
water over a period of time, the alterations in the quality of the water can be seen. However, due
to the limitation of time with the borrowed equipment, reagents and time only one set of tests
could have been performed for each site visited. The parameters that were tested in this project
included temperature, pH, turbidity, nitrates, phosphates, BOD5 and Alkalinity. A qualitative
visual assessment of the aquatic system was also carried out.
A LabQuest2 water quality testing package, provided by the University of Trinidad and Tobago,
Agricultural and Food Technology Department, was used to test the water quality parameters.
The LabQuest2 water quality testing kit included probes for testing water, temperature, pH,
turbidity, nitrates, phosphates, BOD and alkalinity.
The LabQuest2 is a portable, hand held device, to which various probes are used to determine the
properties of the sampled water. At each site, each group of the three groups collected four (4)
water samples using plastic bottles from the water of the beach. These bottles were labelled A to
D. In addition to the four water samples taken, another five (5) samples were taken using glass
bottles to test for BOD5, these bottles were labelled E1 to E5.
The water samples were collected by completely submerging the bottles into the water and
allowing water to fill up to the “mouth” of the bottle. After this, the lid was quickly fastened on
the bottle, while it was still under water. The bottles were then packaged and transported to the
laboratory. This method of sampling was done for all the coastal sites visited. Each sample set
was then brought to the laboratory for testing using the LabQuest2 to obtain the following
readings of –
1. Biochemical Oxygen Demand – Bottles E1 to E5 which were stored in ice and wrapped
in foil were used for this. The dissolved oxygen levels present on the initial day and at the
end of the five day period were measured using the Dissolved Oxygen Sensor. The
difference and average was then determined as the BOD5.

14
2. Temperature. – The Stainless Steel Temperature Probe was placed into bottle “A” and
after the temperature stabilized on the interface, the reading was recorded.
3. pH – The pH Sensor Probe was placed into bottle “A” and swirled until a reading of the
pH was stabilised on the interface and the reading was recorded.
4. Nitrates – The nitrate-ion concentration in the water sample from bottle “A”, in mg/L
NO3, was measured by placing the electrode from the Nitrate Ion-Selective Electrode into
the bottle. The reading was then recorded.
5. Turbidity – The Turbidity in NTU was determined using the Turbidity Sensor. Water
from sample bottle “A” was poured into a cuvette and placed into the Turbidity Sensor.
The reading was then recorded.
6. Total Solids – A precise amount of water from Bottle “B” was measured and placed into
a clean, dried and weighed beaker. A drying oven was then used to evaporate the water
and the beaker was reweighed. The difference between the final and initial mass the total
solids was calculated. Calculations were also made to convert the mass to mg/L total
solids.
7. Total Phosphates – A colorimeter was used to create a 4-point standard curve of
phosphate absorbance vs concentration, by using a set of four phosphate standards. The
water sample from bottle “C” was then poured into the cuvette and placed into the
colorimeter to determine its absorbance. The concentration of the total phosphates was
deduced from the graph, using the absorbance of the water sample.
8. Alkalinity – Alkalinity of the water samples was determined by titrating 0.001M
sulphuric acid against the water sample in Bottle “D”, using a methyl orange indicator to
determine the end point of the reaction. At the end point of the reaction, the alkalinity
was determined using the stoichiometric ratio between sulphuric acid and calcium
carbonate.

15
Presentation and Analysis
Activities Pollution and Species Diversity
Graph 1 –
The graph above indicates that in visible pollution, there is a predominance of bottles and paper,
with Site B being polluted mainly by bottles.
0
10
20
30
40
Paper Bottles Plastics Oil Spills
Recreational Recreational Recreational Industrial
AverageNumber
Pollution Type
Graph showing the average amount and type of pollution
seenat eachsite
A
B
C
D

16
Graph 2 –
The above graph showsthat site B hadthe highestspeciesdiversitywhichwas9.43 whereassite Dhad
the lowestwhichwas5.60.
-
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
10.00
Group 1
OverAll SD
Amphibians
and Aquatic
Grass and
Ferns
Herbs Insects and
Arachnids
Sedge, Tree
and Vine
AverageNumber
Species Type
Graph showing Group 1 reults for the average speciesdiversity
of eachsite
A B C D

17
Graph 3 –
The graph above indicatesthatSite B,despite havingthe highestlevel of pollution,had the greatest
speciesdiversityof approximately9.5as comparedtosite D withthe lowest speciesdiversityof
approximately 6.
5.00
5.50
6.00
6.50
7.00
7.50
8.00
8.50
9.00
9.50
A B C D
AverageNumber
Coastal Site
Graph showing difference betweengroup 1 overallspecies
diversity and mean overall species diversity
Group 1 Overall Species Diversity Mean Overall Species Diversity

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Laboratory Tests
Graph 1 –
The graph above indicates that there were fluctuations among the levels of Nitrates and
Phosphates present at the four coastal sites; coastal site B had the highest level of Nitrates and
Phosphates. Nitrates are acidic in nature whereas phosphates are alkali in nature. As such, the
presence of both nitrates and phosphates in the water would keep the pH within a steady range.
This is justified by the graph as it is seen that the pH values of the four visited coastal sites were
fairly similar with values ranging between 5.73 and 6.84, which is a habitable pH for aquatic
organisms.
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
A
B
C
D
Coastal Site
Graph showing the Nitrate, Phosphate and pH level at
eachsite
Nitrates (mg/L)
Total Phosphates
Concentration (mg/L)
pH

19
Graph 2 –
From the graph above it is observed that as the level of Total Solids increases, the level of
Biological Oxygen Demand also increases. This is due to the dark appearance of the large
amounts of solid particles in water which attracts heat from the sun thus causing an increase in
water temperature. As such, water loses its ability to hold dissolved oxygen which therefore
results in an increase in the Biological Oxygen Demand.
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
A
B
C
D
CoastalSite
Graph showing the BOD(mg/L) and TotalSolids(mg/L)
level at eachsite
Total Solids(mg/L) BOD(mg/L)

20
Graph 3 –
The above graph shows that when the Alkalinity level in water is high, the Nitrate level is low.
This is because both Nitrates and Alkalinity are interrelated since Nitrates are acidic in nature
whilst Alkalinity is defined as the measure of the amount of acid in which water can neutralize.
Thus, when the Alkalinity level in water is high, the Nitrate level will be low.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
A B C D
Coastal Site
Graph showing the Nitrate and Alkalinity level at each
site
Nitrates(mg/L)
Alkalinity(mg/L)

21
Graph 4 –
The graph above indicates that when there is a high level of Nitrates and Phosphates present in
water, the level of Biological Oxygen Demand increases. The reason for this is that Nitrates and
Phosphates are interrelated to the Biological Oxygen Demand. As the level of decomposing
organic matter such as nitrates and phosphates increases, the level of dissolved oxygen decreases
thus resulting in an increase in the Biological Oxygen Demand in water.
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
A B C D
Coastal Site
Graph showing the BiologicalOxygenDemand, Nitrate
and Phosphate levelat eachsite
BOD(mg/L) Nitrates(mg/L) Phosphates(mg/L)

22
Graph 5 –
From the graph above it is seen that as the Temperature increases, the level of Biological Oxygen
Demand also increases. This is because increased water temperatures speeds up bacterial
decomposition which results in higher BOD levels.
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
A
B
C
D
CoastalSite
Graph showing the BOD(mg/L) level and Temperature(0C)
level at eachsite
Temperature/°C BOD(mg/L)

23
Discussions of Findings
Pollution disrupts natural ecosystems and as such, it is expected that sites with low levels of
pollution would have a high species diversity. However, this is in contrast to the data collected
and observations made at the four sites A, B, C and D visited. It was observed that site B had the
highest level of pollution while site D had the lowest. However, when calculated, the mean
species diversity of sites A, B, C and D were 8.41, 9.33, 8.57 and 5.54 respectively. It is noted
that the site which had the highest level of pollution, site B, had the highest species diversity,
whereas the site which had the lowest level of pollution, site D, had the lowest species diversity.
This may be because site D, in contrast to sites A, B and C, is also a mountainous ecosystem and
as such, few species live there. However, the main reason is due to the level of development at
site D, which is used mainly as a tourist attraction. The natural ecosystem was modified by the
construction of buildings and recreational facilities, thus affecting the natural habitat and
resulting in a low species diversity. The effect of pollution would therefore further decrease the
pre-existing small species diversity at this site. In contrast, there was little visual modifications
made to site B and as such, the natural habitat of these species was preserved which resulted in
the species diversity being high. The effect of pollution would have decreased this species
diversity however since it was originally high, it remained the site with the highest species
diversity. Also, it was observed that the ecosystem at sites A and C was not majorly affected by
changes in infrastructure, thus their species diversity remained at a moderate average. However,
pollution would have caused a decrease in this average.
From the observations made, it was seen that the water of the four coastal sites visited was not
clear in appearance. The colour of the water of both sites A and C was light brown, site B was
brown in colour and site D had a cloudy appearance. This was due to the varying levels of
turbidity in the water. Turbidity is a measure of water’s lack of clarity and can thus be
interrelated to the level of Total Solids present in water since a high level of Total Solids present
would cause water to lose its clarity and thus results in a high Turbidity level.
Furthermore, from the research done, it is noted that different forms of agricultural processes
take place at each site. As such, there may have been use of Nitrate and Phosphate fertilizers at
each site. The presence of Nitrates and Phosphates in water would contribute to the level of Total
Solids present and would thus affect the Turbidity of water, which therefore accounts for the
colour of the water seen. However, the level of Nitrates present would be affected by the level of
Alkalinity of the water. This is because the alkalinity of water is a measure of how much acid it
can neutralize. When the Alkalinity level is high, the Nitrate level would therefore be low as
water is able to neutralize nitrates which are acidic in nature. From the results obtained, it was
seen that each coastal site had a high level of Alkalinity
Apart from this, the presence of Nitrates, which are acidic in nature, and Phosphates, which are
basic in nature, would also affect the pH of water. The pH of each site ranged between 5.73 and
6.84. On the pH scale, a pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic and above 7 is basic. As such, these
pHs would be considered relatively acidic. Since the pH of the sites wasn’t extremely acidic, it
can be established that the existence of both Nitrates and Phosphates in water kept the pH at a
relative balance.

24
Also, the results of the tests indicated that each coastal site visited had a relatively low level of
Biological Oxygen Demand. Aquatic organisms obtain oxygen in the form of dissolved oxygen.
When aerobic bacteria decompose a vast volume of organic material such that oxygen is depleted
faster than it can be replaced, the resulting decrease in dissolved oxygen is known as the
Biological Oxygen Demand. The level of BOD in water would be affected by the level of Total
Solids since Total Solids consist of solid particles which may have a dark appearance. The dark
appearance of the large amounts of solid particles in water will attract heat from the sun and
cause the temperature of the water to increase. This therefore causes water loses its ability to
hold dissolved oxygen which therefore results in an increase in the Biological Oxygen Demand.
In addition to this, Total Solids may consist of substances such as Nitrates and Phosphates which
cause the growth of algae. This can be interrelated to the temperature of water since an increase
in water temperature causes an increase in the rate of photosynthesis by algae and other plant
life. This therefore results in faster plant growth but would also cause plants to die faster. When
plants die, they are decomposed by bacteria. In order for decomposition to take place, bacteria
requires a large supply of oxygen which thus results in a high BOD. As such, when the level of
Total Solids and Temperature increases, the Biological Oxygen Demand increases.

25
Conclusions
Within the limits of experimental errors, from the various observations made throughout this
Internal Assessment and tests carried out at all four sites, Coastal Site B had the highest level of
water pollution, since the physicochemical parameters which were tested for were greatest at this
site, and also, the highest level of visual pollution. As such, from the four coastal sites visited,
site B was affected by anthropogenic impacts the most. However, this site had the highest
species diversity which was 9.33. In contrast, the tested physicochemical parameters were lowest
at Coastal Site D; this site had the least water pollution and also had the lowest level of visual
pollution seen. As such, this site was therefore was least affected by anthropogenic activities,
however the species diversity at this site was the lowest, being that of 5.54. Coastal Site C also
had a relatively high level of water pollution but a low level of visual pollution as compared to
Coastal Site A. This therefore resulted in the species diversity at site A and C to be 8.41 and 8.57
respectively.

26
Recommendations
- There should be a decrease in the amount of Nitrate and Phosphate based fertilizers used
at the four coastal sites
- Laws should be implemented to prevent the indiscriminate dumping of waste material
near the coastal zones
- The quality of water at all sites should be monitored frequently so that the ecosystems
can have an optimum environment for growth and maintenance.

27
Bibliography
(2011, September25).RetrievedfromMayaroRioClaroRegional Corporation:
http://mayarorioclaro.com/
Cleland,E.(2011). Biodiversityand EcosystemStability.RetrievedfromThe Nature EducationKnowledge
Project:http://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/biodiversity-and-ecosystem-
stability-17059965
Coe,R. (2008). RetrievedfromWorldAgroforestryCentre:http://www.worldagroforestry.org/
Ecological Sampling Methods .(2000). RetrievedfromOffwell Woodland&Wildlife Trust:
http://www.countrysideinfo.co.uk/howto.htm
Khan,A. (2010, August6). Official opening of GuayaguayareCommunity Centre.RetrievedfromThe
GovernmentInformationService Limited(GISL):
http://www.news.gov.tt/archive/index.php?news=4955
MEP Publishers(Media&Editorial ProjectsLtd) .(2013, 10 22). Touring Trinidad:the East Coast.
RetrievedfromDiscoverTrinidad&TobagoTravel Guide:
http://www.discovertnt.com/articles/Trinidad/Touring-Trinidad-pt-7-the-East-
Coast/172/3/23#axzz3SW87jwev
Newcommunitycentreto be opened in Vessigny.(2014).RetrievedfromMinistryof Community
Development:http://www.community.gov.tt/home/content/new-community-centre-be-
opened-vessigny
Singh, A.,SanamachaMeetei,N.,& BijenMeitei,L.(2012). SeasonalVariation of SomePhysico-Chemical
Characteristicsof Three MajorRivers in Imphal,Manipur:A ComparativeEvaluation.Retrieved
fromCurrentWorld Environment:http://www.cwejournal.org/vol8no1/seasonal-variation-of-
some-physico-chemical-characteristics-of-three-major-rivers-in-imphal-manipur-a-comparative-
evaluation/
ThingsTo Do In ChaguaramasBay Peninsula.(n.d.).RetrievedfromDiscoverTT:http://www.discover-
tt.net/travel_and_tourism/things_do_chaguaramas_bay_peninsula.html

28
Appendices
Appendix 1
Table showing the overall visual pollution seen at each site
Total for average of 15 Quadrats 15m^2 by 3 groups
Percentage Coverage)
Pollution Type Pollution A B C D
Recreational Paper 30 23 18 2
Recreational Bottles 12 34 10 3
Recreational Plastics 11 23 12 6
Industrial Oil Spills 23 6 24 0

29
Appendix 2
Table showing Group 1 results for the species diversity at each site
Total for average of 15 Quadrats 15m^2
by Group 1
Type Scientific
Name
Common
Name
A B C D A B C D
amphibian Eleutherodacty
lus johnstonei
Whistling
Frog;
Fluitkikker
2 2 1 - 2.00 1.31 -0.25 0.00
amphibian Scarthyla
vigilans
Solano
frog
- - - 2 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.00
aquatic Eichhornia
crassipes
Water
Hyacinth
2 2 - - 2.81 2.81 0.00 0.00
fern Adiantum
raddianum
Fern 6 2 - - 32.81 2.00 0.00 0.00
grass Cyperus
rotundus
Nut Grass 16 33 9 - 247.81 1072.3
1
63.75 0.00
grass Axonopus
compressus
Savanna
Grass,
Carpet
Grass, Flat
Grass
75 64 100 - 5550.0
0
3968.7
5
9900.0
0
0.00
grass Brachiaria
mutica
Paragrass 4 9 - - 10.31 67.81 0.00 0.00
grass Paspalum
fasciculatum
Bull Grass,
Bamboo
Grass
14 7 6 - 168.75 42.00 27.31 0.00
grass Paspalum
paniculatum
Galmarra
Grass
- - - 14 0.00 0.00 0.00 182.00
grass Sporobolus
indicus
Tapia,
Drop Seed,
Hay Grass
5 9 - - 22.31 72.00 0.00 0.00
grass Setaria
poiretiana
Bristle
grass
- - - 3 0.00 0.00 0.00 6.00
grass Rottboellia
cochinchinensi
s
Sugarcane
Weed
- - 8 - 0.00 0.00 56.00 0.00
grass Bambusa
vulgaris
Bamboo - 1 - - 0.00 -0.19 0.00 0.00
herb Alternanthera
ficoidea
Crab
Weed
6 9 27 - 27.31 63.75 702.00 0.00
herb Amaranthus
dubius
Bhagi 2 5 - - 2.00 22.31 0.00 0.00
herb Bidens pilosa Railway
Daisy,
Spanish
Needle
- - - 6 0.00 0.00 0.00 27.31
herb Blechum
brownei/
pyramidatum
John Bush,
Wild Hops
- - - 5 0.00 0.00 0.00 22.31

30
herb Caladium
bicolor
White
Eddoe
- - - - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
herb Commelina
diffusa
Water
Grass
20 59 53 - 360.75 3363.7
5
2756.0
0
0.00
herb Drymaria
cordata
Chick
Weed
11 20 9 - 115.31 360.75 63.75 0.00
herb Emilia
sonchifolia
Consumpti
on Weed,
Sow
Thistle,
Cupid
Paint,
Shaving
Bush
- - - 9 0.00 0.00 0.00 63.75
herb Eryngium
foetidum
Shadon
Benny
- - 2 - 0.00 0.00 2.00 0.00
herb Euphorbia hirta Milk
Weed,
Spurge
- - - 3 0.00 0.00 0.00 6.00
herb Peperomia
pellucida
Silver
Bush,
Ratta
Tempa
- - - 11 0.00 0.00 0.00 104.81
herb Physalis
angulata
Hog Weed - 2 - - 0.00 1.31 0.00 0.00
herb Sida acuta Ballier
Savanne,
Broom
Weed
- - - 8 0.00 0.00 0.00 56.00
herb Spigelia
anthelmia
Worm
Bush, Pink
Weed
- - 7 - 0.00 0.00 38.81 0.00
herb Tridax
procumbens
Wild Daisy - 6 - 8 0.00 24.75 0.00 56.00
herb Parthenium
hysterophorus
White Top - - - 1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
insect Solenopsis
geminata
Tropical
Fire Ant
81 120 81 - 6399.7
5
14160.
75
6399.7
5
0.00
insect Solenopsis
invicta
Red
Imported
Fire Ant
- - - 108 0.00 0.00 0.00 11609.
81
insect Tapinoma
melanocephalu
m
Black-
Headed
Ant, Ghost
Ant
39 36 21 16 1462.8
1
1242.3
1
430.31 247.81
insect Philornis
downsi
Fly 2 - 8 - 0.75 0.00 59.81 0.00
insect Plutella
xylostella
Diamond
Back
Moth
1 2 - - -0.25 0.75 0.00 0.00
insect Aleurothrixus
woglumi
Citrus
Black Fly
6 11 16 - 27.31 104.81 247.81 0.00
insect Cryptolaemus
montrouzieri
Lady Bird
Beetle
5 8 11 - 20.00 59.81 115.31 0.00

31
insect Family
Hesperiidae
Skipper
Butterfly
3 4 6 - 6.00 12.00 27.31 0.00
insect Consul fabius Tiger with
Tails
1 1 2 - -0.19 0.31 1.31 0.00
insect Mestra
hypermestra
cana
Grey
Handkerch
ief
2 2 2 - 0.75 2.00 2.81 0.00
insect Cryptotermes
domesticus
Termite 20 31 22 42 380.00 899.75 472.81 1680.7
5
insect Aedes aegypti Tiger
Mosquito
8 16 24 - 52.31 247.81 540.31 0.00
insect Paratrechina
longicornis
Crazy Ant 60 80 100 86 3540.0
0
6320.0
0
9900.0
0
7310.0
0
Arachnid Marptusa Spp Spider 2 4 3 9 2.00 10.31 6.00 63.75
sedge Cyperus
rotundus
Nut Grass 5 8 - - 22.31 59.81 0.00 0.00
tree Bambusavulga
ris
Bamboo 2 1 - - 0.75 0.00 0.00 0.00
tree Syzygium
cumini
Indian
Blackberry
/ Gulab
Jamoon
- - - 1 0.00 0.00 0.00 -0.19
tree Roupala
montana
Beef wood - - - 11 0.00 0.00 0.00 104.81
tree Acacia
mangium
White
Teak
- - - 1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
vine Merremia
umbellata
Hog Vine - - 8 6 0.00 0.00 56.00 27.31
vine Momordica
charantia
Cerasee
Bush
1 2 2 - -0.19 0.75 1.31 0.00
N 397.25 551.5 526 348 18456.
31
32186.
63
31870.
25
21570.
25
N(N-1) 157410.31
25
303600.
75
27615
0
12075
6
Species
Diversity
Group 1
Overall SD
8.53 9.43 8.66 5.60
Amphibian
s &
Aquatic
2.87 2.91 1.00 1.00
Grass and
Ferns
2.37 2.93 1.48 1.45
Herbs 2.86 2.53 2.63 7.36
Insects and
Arachnids
4.31 4.25 4.80 3.23
Sedge,
Tree and
Vine
2.13 1.73 1.49 2.39

32
Appendix 3
Table showing the mean species diversity at each site
Total for average of 15 Quadrats
15m^2 by 3 groups
Type Scientific Name Common
Name
A B C D A B C D
amphibian Eleutherodactylus
johnstonei
Whistling
Frog;
Fluitkikker
8 7 2 0 56 42 2 0
amphibian Scarthyla vigilans Solano
frog
0 0 0 8 0 0 0 56
aquatic Eichhornia
crassipes
Water
Hyacinth
9 9 0 0 72 72 0 0
fern Adiantum
raddianum
Fern 25 8 0 0 600 56 0 0
grass Cyperus rotundus Nut Grass 65 133 34 0 4160 17556 1122 0
grass Axonopus
compressus
Savanna
Grass,
Carpet
Grass, Flat
Grass
300 254 400 0 89700 64262 15960
0
0
grass Brachiaria mutica Paragrass 15 35 0 0 210 1190 0 0
grass Paspalum
fasciculatum
Bull Grass,
Bamboo
Grass
54 28 23 0 2862 756 506 0
grass Paspalum
paniculatum
Galmarra
Grass
0 0 0 56 0 0 0 3080
grass Sporobolusindicus Tapia,
Drop Seed,
Hay Grass
21 36 0 0 420 1260 0 0
grass Setaria poiretiana Bristle
grass
0 0 0 12 0 0 0 132
grass Rottboellia
cochinchinensis
Sugarcane
Weed
0 0 32 0 0 0 992 0
grass Bambusa vulgaris Bamboo 0 3 0 0 0 6 0 0
herb Alternanthera
ficoidea
Crab
Weed
23 34 108 0 506 1122 11556 0
herb Amaranthus dubius Bhagi 8 21 0 0 56 420 0 0
herb Bidens pilosa Railway
Daisy,
Spanish
Needle
0 0 0 23 0 0 0 506
herb Blechum
brownei/pyramidat
um
John Bush,
Wild Hops
0 0 0 21 0 0 0 420
herb Caladiumbicolor White
Eddoe
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
herb Commelina
diffusa
Water
Grass
78 234 212 0 6006 54522 44732 0

33
herb Drymaria cordata Chick
Weed
45 78 34 0 1980 6006 1122 0
herb Emilia sonchifolia Consumpti
on Weed,
Sow
Thistle,
Cupid
Paint,
Shaving
Bush
0 0 0 34 0 0 0 1122
herb Eryngium foetidum Shadon
Benny
0 0 8 0 0 0 56 0
herb Euphorbia hirta Milk Weed,
Spurge
0 0 0 12 0 0 0 132
herb Peperomia
pellucida
Silver
Bush,
Ratta
Tempa
0 0 0 43 0 0 0 1806
herb Physalis angulata Hog Weed 0 7 0 0 0 42 0 0
herb Sida acuta Ballier
Savanne,
Broom
Weed
0 0 0 32 0 0 0 992
herb Spigelia anthelmia Worm
Bush, Pink
Weed
0 0 27 0 0 0 702 0
herb Tridax procumbens Wild Daisy 0 22 0 32 0 462 0 992
herb Parthenium
hysterophorus
White Top 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 12
insect Solenopsis
geminata
Tropical
Fire Ant
322 478 322 0 10336
2
22800
6
10336
2
0
insect Solenopsisinvicta Red
Imported
Fire Ant
0 0 0 433 0 0 0 18705
6
insect Tapinoma
melanocephalum
Black-
Headed
Ant, Ghost
Ant
155 143 85 65 23870 20306 7140 4160
insect Philornisdownsi Fly 6 0 33 0 30 0 1056 0
insect Plutella xylostella Diamond
Back Moth
2 6 0 0 2 30 0 0
insect Aleurothrixus
woglumi
Citrus
Black Fly
23 43 65 0 506 1806 4160 0
insect Cryptolaemus
montrouzieri
Lady Bird
Beetle
20 33 45 0 380 1056 1980 0
insect Family Hesperiidae Skipper
Butterfly
12 16 23 0 132 240 506 0
insect Consul fabius Tiger with
Tails
3 5 7 0 6 20 42 0
insect Mestra
hypermestra cana
Grey
Handkerch
ief
6 8 9 0 30 56 72 0

34
insect Cryptotermes
domesticus
Termite 80 122 89 166 6320 14762 7832 27390
insect Aedes aegypti Tiger
Mosquito
31 65 95 0 930 4160 8930 0
insect Paratrechina
longicornis
Crazy Ant 240 320 400 344 57360 10208
0
15960
0
11799
2
Arachnid Marptusa Spp Spider 8 15 12 34 56 210 132 1122
sedge Cyperus rotundus Nut Grass 21 33 0 0 420 1056 0 0
tree Bambusavulgaris Bamboo 6 4 0 0 30 12 0 0
tree Syzygium cumini Indian
Blackberry
/ Gulab
Jamoon
0 0 0 3 0 0 0 6
tree Roupala montana Beef wood 0 0 0 43 0 0 0 1806
tree Acacia mangium White Teak 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 12
vine Merremia
umbellata
Hog Vine 0 0 32 23 0 0 992 506
vine Momordica
charantia
Cerasee
Bush
3 6 7 0 6 30 42 0
N 1589 2206 2104 1392 30006
8
52160
4
51623
6
34930
0
N(N-1) 25233
32
48642
30
44247
12
19362
72
Species
Diversity
Mean SD
Overall
8.41 9.33 8.57 5.54
Amphibian
s and
Aquatic
2.13 2.11 1.00 1.00
Grass and
Ferns
2.35 2.90 1.47 1.42
Herbs 2.76 2.50 2.59 6.72
Insects and
Arachnids
4.27 4.22 4.76 3.21
Sedge,
Tree and
Vine
1.91 1.64 1.43 2.26

35
Site Visits
Entry number: 1
Date: 26/11/14
Location: Guayaguayare Beach
Map:
Map1 showing the location of coastal region A
Title: Environmental Survey of Coastal Region A
Objectives:
comparable to unpolluted coastal zones, and to test for other physicochemical parameters
including - Temperature, pH, Turbidity, Total Solids, Total Phosphates, Nitrates and
Alkalinity
Introduction:
Coastal Region A is located on the South Eastern part of Trinidad. The natural resources are oil
and gas, while its human resources are agriculture and fishing.

36
Activities:
1. The class was divided into three groups with three students per group
2. The sites where the quadrats were to be placed for sampling were located
3. Each group then went to their respective site and carried out quadrat sampling
4. An estimate of the percentage of the types of plants, animals and pollution was recorded
for each quadrat sample taken
5. Samples of water from the beach and 2 nearby streams were taken and the LabQuest2
water quality testing package was used to test the pH, temperature and conductivity of
each.
Observations:
- There was an oil well present (Figure 1.0)
Figure 1.0 showing theoil well seen at coastalregion A
- The weather was sunny and clear
- There was a security booth present
- A moderate level of pollution was seen

37
- There were benches and bathroom facilities present (Figure 1.1)
Figure 1.1 showing thebathroomfacilitiespresentat coastalregion A
- The water was light brown in colour
Discussions and Findings:
The presence of a security booth, benches and bathroom facilities indicated that this site is often
used for various forms of human activity. This human activity would have therefore resulted in
the moderate level of pollution seen. Furthermore, this pollution, along with the presence of the
oil well would have therefore affected the colour of the water. Finally, the sunny weather would
have affected the temperatures of the water from the beach and streams.
Follow Ups:
- All three groups gathered and pooled together their results
Conclusion:
From the observations, it can be concluded that this coastal region provides jobs for many
persons of the energy, agriculture and fishing industry.

38
Entry number: 2
Date: 26/11/14
Location: Mayaro Beach
Map:
Map2 showing the location of coastal region B
Title: Environmental Survey of Coastal Region B
Objectives:
Alkalinity
Introduction:
Coastal Region B is located on the Eastern side of Trinidad. The natural resources are oil and
gas, while its human resources are agriculture, fishing and commerce.

39
Activities:
each.
Observations:
- There were numerous fishing boats nearby (Figure 1.2)
Figure 1.2 showing someof the fishing boatsseen at coastalregion B
- Various lifeguards were seen at different locations of the beach
- Many beach houses were seen along the coastline

40
- A high level of pollution was seen throughout the beach (Figure 1.3)
Figure 1.3 showing thehigh level of pollution seen at coastalregion B
- The weather was clear and sunny
- The water was brown in colour
The presence of various lifeguards and many beach houses indicated that this site is often used
for recreational activities by humans. As such, the high level of pollution seen would thus be as a
result of the recreational activities by humans. This pollution may have therefore affected the
colour of the water. Furthermore, the presence of fishing boats indicated that this site is vital
because many people obtain their source of income from it. Finally, the sunny weather would
have affected the temperatures of the water from the beach and streams.
Follow Ups:
Conclusion:
persons of the energy, agriculture and fishing industry. Also, it also a favourite among most
people for bathing and indulging in other recreational activities.

41
Entry number: 3
Date: 29/01/15
Location: Vessigny Beach
Map:
Map3 showing the location of coastal region C
Title: Environmental Survey of Coastal Region C
Objectives:
Alkalinity
Introduction:
Coastal Region C is located on the South Western Peninsula of Trinidad. The natural resources
are oil and gas, while its human resources are agriculture, fishing and commerce.

42
Activities:
each.
Observations:
- There was a Secondary School nearby
- There were numerous fishing boats nearby (Figure 1.4)
Figure 1.4 showing someof the fishing boatsseen at coastalregion C
- People were seen bathing in the beach
- A moderate amount of pollution was seen throughout the beach
- A cark park was present
- A security booth was present
- There were bathroom facilities present
- There was presence of a wastewater treatment plant
- The water was light brown in colour

43
The presence of a security booth, a car park and bathroom facilities indicated that this site is
often used for various forms of human activity. People were also seen bathing in the water of the
beach which thus indicated that this site is used for recreational activities by man. This, together
with a Secondary School being present nearby, accounts for the pollution seen on the site. Also,
the presence of fishing boats indicated that this site is vital because many people obtain their
source of income from it. Furthermore, the presence of the water treatment plant, together with
the pollution, would have therefore affected the colour of the water. Finally, the sunny weather
would have affected the temperatures of the water from the beach and streams.
Follow Ups:
Conclusion:
persons of the energy, agriculture and fishing industry.

44
Entry number: 4
Date: 06/02/15
Location: Macqueripe Beach
Map:
Map4 showing the location of coastal region D
Title: Environmental Survey of Coastal Region D
Objectives:
Alkalinity

45
Introduction:
Coastal Region D is located on the North Western Peninsula of Trinidad. This region is used
mainly as a tourist attraction with attractions such as a beach, a military museum and a national
park.
Activities:
each.
Observations:
- Lifeguards were present at the beach
- People were seen bathing in the beach
- There was a car park present
- There were dustbins for litter present
- There were benches and bathroom facilities present
- There was a zip line course present (Figure 1.5)
Figure 1.5 showing oneof the zip line coursespresentatcoastalregion D

46
- There was little pollution present
- The water had a cloudy appearance
The presence of lifeguards, a car park, dustbins, benches and bathroom facilities indicated that
this site is often used for various forms of human activity. A zip line course was present and
people were also seen bathing in the water of the beach which thus indicated that this site is used
for recreational activities by man. Little pollution was seen on the site and this may have been
due to the visitors of the site making use of the provided dustbins for their litter. Finally, the
sunny weather would have affected the temperatures of the water from the beach and streams.
Follow Ups:
Conclusion:
persons of the tourism industry. Also, it is a popular place of visit from many people because of
the wide array of recreational activities.

47
Laboratory Entries
Lab 1
Date: The lab was done on the same dates the site visits were carried out
Title: Biochemical Oxygen Demand
Aim: To determine the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) of all four Coastal sites
Apparatus and Materials:
1. Vernier LabQuest2 interface
2. Vernier Dissolved Oxygen Probe
3. Dissolved Oxygen Filling Solution
4. Biochemical Oxygen Demand Water Sample
5. Sodium Sulphite Calibration Solution
6. Pipette
7. 250mL beaker
8. Wash bottle with distilled water
9. Sample water from each site
10. 100% calibration bottle
Procedure:
Day 0
1. At each of the visited coastal zones, each of the three groups collected five water samples
for the BOD test.
2. Each of the glass BOD sample bottles were then placed approximately 10cm below the
water’s surface and kept there for 1 minute until all air bubbles were removed and the
bottle was completely filled. The BOD bottle lid was secured tightly, while still
submerged.
3. Each bottle was then wrapped in foil and labelled E1 to E5 and with the name of its
corresponding coastal zone. The bottles were stored in ice and returned to the laboratory
for testing.
4. At the laboratory, the bottles E1 to E5 were removed from the ice and the initial
dissolved oxygen reading was measured using the LabQuest2 Dissolved Oxygen probe.
5. Sodium Sulphite solution was used to calibrate the LabQuest2 Probe. The probe was
washed with distilled water and the readings of the samples were then taken.
6. The results were recorded in Table1 as the “initial dissolved oxygen level”.
7. The BOD bottles were then placed in an incubator (dark closet) at around 27 °C for five
days.
Day 5
8. The BOD bottles were removed from the incubator at approximately the same time of
day they were placed into the incubator and the dissolve oxygen was measured following
step 5.

48
Data Collection/Results:
Table 1 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the level ofdissolved oxygen in samples E1 – E5 after 5 days
for each site
Coastal
Zone
Dissolved
oxygen
E1 E2 E3 E4 E5 Average (BOD5)
(mg/L)
A Initial (mg/L) 8.8 8.8 8.7 8.9 8.8
Final (mg/L) 5.4 5.7 5.3 5.6 6.4
BOD (mg/L) 3.4 3.1 3.4 3.3 2.4 3.12
B Initial (mg/L) 9.3 9.2 9.9 9.1 9.1
Final (mg/L) 4.5 4.4 4.3 5.7 4.5
BOD5 (mg/L) 4.8 4.8 5.6 3.4 4.6 4.64
C Initial (mg/L) 11.1 11.1 11.3 11.1 11.2
Final (mg/L) 6.9 6.8 6.8 6.6 6.8
BOD5 (mg/L) 4.2 4.3 4.5 4.5 4.4 4.38
D Initial (mg/L) 7.3 7.7 7.5 7.5 7.7
Final (mg/L) 4.8 4.7 4.4 4.6 4.7
BOD5 (mg/L) 2.5 3.0 3.1 2.9 3.0 2.90
Data Analysis:
BODE1 = Final Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) – Initial Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
BOD5 =
𝐵𝑂𝐷 𝐸1 +𝐵𝑂𝐷 𝐸2 +𝐵𝑂𝐷 𝐸3 +𝐵𝑂𝐷 𝐸4 +𝐵𝑂𝐷 𝐸5
5
mg/L
The results for the values of BODE1 – BODE5 and BOD5 are shown in Table1 above.
Discussion:
This lab was done to determine the Biochemical Oxygen Demand of the water samples taken
from each of the four coastal zones visited. In a “healthy” body of water, oxygen is replenished
quicker than it’s used by aquatic organisms. However, in some bodies of water, aerobic bacteria
decompose such a vast volume of organic material, that oxygen is depleted from the water faster
than it can be replaced. The resulting decrease in dissolved oxygen is known as the Biochemical
Oxygen Demand (BOD). Also, oxygen is vital to aquatic species as they use it to build energy
through respiration. Dissolved oxygen is the form of oxygen accessible to aquatic organisms.
After testing, it was found that the average level of BOD in coastal zones “A” , “B” and “C”
were calculated to be 3.12mg/L, 4.64mg/L and 4.38mg/L respectively. A level of BOD between
3mg/L – 5mg/L indicates that the water is moderately clean with some organic waste. As such, it
can be deduced that the water in coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C” was moderately clean and
contained some organic waste, and the aquatic organisms which live there would be able to live
comfortably. In contrast, after testing, it was found that the average level of BOD in coastal zone
“D” was calculated to be 2.90mg/L. A level of BOD between 1mg/L – 2mg/L indicates that the
water is clean with little organic waste. As such, it can be deduced that the water in coastal zone

49
“D” was clean and contained little organic waste and the aquatic organisms which live there
would be able to live comfortably.
Conclusion:
The BOD5 levels of the four coastal zones were investigated and determined. The BOD5 levels of
the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 3.12mg/L, 4.64mg/L and 4.38mg/L respectively.
All four coastal sites had acceptable BOD levels.
Limitations:
The resources and time were limited for this experiment and thus a simple method for the
calculation of BOD5 was employed. As such, to obtain a precise measure of BOD5 it should be
conducted over a longer period of time period so that the changes can be better observed, thus
resulting in a clear cut representation of the various levels present in the water.

50
Lab 2
Title: Temperature, pH, Nitrates and Turbidity
Aim: To determine the Temperature, pH, Nitrates and Turbidity of all four coastal sites
1. Vernier LabQuest2 interface
2. Vernier Temperature Probe
3. Vernier Turbidity Sensor
4. Vernier pH Sensor
5. Nitrate Ion-Selective Electrode
6. Wash bottle
8. Distilled water
Procedure:
1. Water samples were collected at each of the visited sites by placing the water bottles
under water for 1 minute, until all the air bubbles were removed. The lid of the bottle was
then tightened quickly under water. The bottle was then labelled “Bottle A” with the
name of its corresponding coastal zone. The bottles were then taken back to the
laboratory for testing.
2. The laboratory technician pre-standardised each probe before testing the samples.
3. Each sample was tested in succession for Temperature, Turbidity, pH, and Nitrates. For
each test the relevant probe was connected to the LabQuest2 interface and placed into
Sample bottle A and the reading recorded in Table 1.
4. Between each test the probes were washed and securely stored away.
Table 1 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the values obtained for pH, Turbidity, Nitrates and
Temperature at the various sites
Coastal Zone pH Turbidity (NTU) Nitrates mg/L Temperature/°C
A 6.31 18 3.9 24.44
B 5.73 23 12.7 27.43
C 6.84 17 2.4 24.50
D 6.33 89 2.8 25.73
Discussion:
This lab was done to determine the Temperature, pH, Nitrates and Turbidity of the water samples
taken from each of the four coastal zones visited. Temperature refers to the degree of heat and is
a measure of the average heat or thermal energy of the particles in a substance. Many aquatic

51
organisms are cold blooded and have their own specific optimum temperature. Due to this,
aquatic organisms can’t survive at temperatures below 00C and they are also intolerable to
temperatures beyond 360C. It was determined that the temperatures of the samples of water for
coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 24.440C, 27.430C, 24.500C and 25.730C respectively.
These temperatures were within the range required for the standard living of these organisms and
as such the temperatures were not harmful to these organisms.
Also, aquatic organisms are extremely sensitive to the pH of their environment; if the pH of their
environment is not between their optimum ranges, these species may become endangered as they
won’t be able to survive and reproduce. The pH scale ranges from 0 – 14 with a pH of 7 being
neutral, a pH of less than 7 being acidic and a pH of above 7 being basic. A pH of 6.5 to 8.2 is
optimal for most organisms. It was found that the pH of the samples of water for the coastal zones
“A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 6.31, 5.73, 6.84 and 6.33 respectively. Thus, it can be inferred that
the pH of the water of the four coastal sites visited was acceptable and allows the aquatic
organisms to live there comfortably.
Furthermore, another parameter which was tested was turbidity. Turbidity refers to the measure
of water’s lack of clarity. Water with high turbidity is cloudy, whereas water with low turbidity
is clear. For aquatic life, turbidity levels should be less than 25 NTU. It was detected that the
values of Turbidity of the samples of water for the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 18,
23, 17 and 89 NTU respectively. With respect to the coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C”, the
turbidity was within the required range and as such the water was clear, allowing light to enter
which thus allowed for the various life processes to take place. In contrast, the turbidity of
coastal zone “D” was higher than acceptable. This therefore indicates that light isn’t being able
to pass through the water which will thus cause a decrease in the dissolved oxygen levels and can
suffocate the aquatic organisms which live there, thus resulting in death.
Finally, nitrates, which are soluble in water, and exits in water as No3
-, are an essential source of
nitrogen required by plants and animals to synthesize amino acids and proteins. The acceptable
nitrate in water level is less than 25 mg/L. Nitrate levels above this would result in an increase in
plant growth and decay, promote bacterial decomposition and would also decrease the oxygen
levels in water thus killing aquatic organisms which live there. It was found that the Nitrate level
of the samples of water for the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 3.9mg/L, 12.7mg/L,
2.4mg/L and 2.8mg/L respectively. As such, the nitrate level of the water samples from the four
coastal zones visited were within in the appropriate range thus allowing aquatic organisms to live
there comfortably.
Conclusion:
The Temperature, pH, Nitrates and Turbidity of the water from the four visited coastal zones
were investigated and determined. Coastal ecosystems “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were within the
required ranges for Temperature, which was 24.440C, 27.430C, 24.500C and 25.730C respectively
and pH, which was 6.31, 5.73, 6.84 and 6.33 respectively. The turbidity level of the four coastal
zones were 18, 23, 17 and 89 NTU respectively. Coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C” had an
acceptable level of turbidity whereas coastal zone “D” had an unacceptable level. The level of

52
Nitrates found in coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 3.9mg/L, 12.7mg/L, 2.4mg/L and
2.8mg/L respectively. The nitrate level for all four coastal zones was within the appropriate
range.
Limitations:
To obtain a specific evaluation of the water pollution these parameters should be collected over a
longer period of time to allow the true levels and fluctuations to be seen.

53
Lab 3
Title: Total Solids
Aim: To determine the total solids present in the water sample collected for all four Coastal
sites
1. Analytical balance (0.001g)
2. Drying oven
3. Tongs
4. 100mL graduated cylinder
5. Four (4) 250mL beakers
Procedure:
then tightened quickly under water. The bottle was then labelled “Bottle B” with the
2. A measuring cylinder was used to measure and pour 200 cm3 of sample water from each
coastal site into each of the pre-dried and weighed 250mL beakers.
3. The beakers were placed in a drying oven at a 100 °C until the following day.
4. The beakers were then removed and placed in a desiccator until they were cooled to room
temperature.
5. Each beaker was weighed to determine the difference by mass.
6. The results were tabulated in Table 1.
Table 1 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the amount Total Solids present in each water sample collected
at the various sites
Coastal Zone Mass of
empty beaker
(g)
Mass of
beaker plus
solids (g)
Mass of
solids (g)
Mass of
solids (mg)
Total
Volume (L)
Total Solids
(mg/L)
A 97.850 97.865 0.015 15 0.2 75
B 95.950 95.968 0.018 18 0.2 90
C 103.550 103.567 0.017 17 0.2 85
D 96.995 97.002 0.007 7 0.2 35

54
Discussion:
This lab was done to determine the level of Total Solids present in the water samples taken from
each of the four coastal zones visited. Total Solids is a measure of all the suspended, colloidal,
and dissolved solids in a sample of water. It was detected that the values of Turbidity of the
samples of water for the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 75, 90, 85 and 35
respectively. As such, it can be inferred that coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C” contained a high
level of suspended, colloidal and dissolved solids. This may endanger the aquatic organisms
which level there since a high level of Total Solids causes a decrease in the photosynthetic rate
and also reduces water clarity. In contrast, coastal zone “D” contained a moderately low level of
suspended, colloidal and dissolved solids. As such, the aquatic organisms which live there are
able to live relatively comfortably.
Conclusion:
The levels Total Solids present in the four coastal zones were investigated and determined. The
levels of total solids of the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 75, 90, 85 and 35
respectively. Coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C” contained high levels of total solids which were
acceptable. Coastal zone “D” contained a low level of total solids which would endanger the
aquatic organisms which live there.
Limitations:

55
Lab 4
Title: Total Phosphates
Aim: To determine the total phosphates in the water sample collected for all four Coastal
sites
1. LabQuest2 Interface
2. Vernier Colourimeter
3. PhosVer3 Phosphate Powder Pillow
4. Sulfate Powder Pillows
5. Phosphate Standard (10.0 mg/L PO4)
6. 2.63M H2SO4
7. 5.0M NaOH
8. 0.1M HCl
9. Four (4) 50mL Erlenmeyer flasks
13. Distilled Water
14. Hot plate
15. One cuvette
Procedure:
then tightened quickly under water. The bottle was then labelled “Bottle C” with the
2. A 25mL graduated cylinder was used to measure and place 25 mL of sample water from
each coastal site into each flask.
3. Water samples from each facility were mixed as follows –
a. One Sulphate powder pillow was added to each flask and swirled.
b. A 10mL graduated cylinder was used to measure and add 2.0 mL of 2.63M H2SO4
to each flask swirled.
c. The samples were boiled for 30 minutes while adding small amounts of distilled
water to keep the volume near, but not above 25mL.
d. After 30 minutes, the flasks were removed from the hot plate and allowed to cool.
e. A 10mL graduated cylinder was used to add 2.0mL of 5.0 M NaOH to each flask
and swirled to neutralise the acid.
f. If a flask contained below 25 mL of liquid, the volume was made up to 25mL
using distilled water.

56
g. One PhosVer3 Phosphate Powder Pillow was added to each sample and
completely dissolved prior to reading on the colourimeter.
4. The phosphate standards and standard curve was already done for us by the University of
Trinidad and Tobago and stored on the LabQuest2 interface for use in the determination
of our sample readings. The data was tabulated in Table 1.
5. An empty cuvette was filled ¾ full with distilled water and the lid was sealed to prepare a
blank.
6. The blank was then placed into the vernier colourimeter and the blank button was clicked
on the interfaced.
7. The cuvette was washed after each reading and the samples for each site was then read on
the colourimeter and tabulated in Table 2.
Table 1 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the Standards Absorbance Readings
Flask
Number
10.0mg/L PO4 Distilled
H2O/mL
Concentration/mg/L
PO4
Absorbance
1 5 20 2 0.6434
2 10 15 4 1.337
3 15 10 6 1.744
4 20 5 8 2.379
Table 2 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the Absorbance Readings for the various sites
Coastal Zone Absorbance Total Phosphates
Concentration/mg/L PO4
Total Phosphorus
Concentration/mg/L PO4
A 0.7560 2.35 0.768
B 1.4895 4.63 1.513
C 0.4279 1.33 0.435
D 0.6820 2.12 0.693
Discussion:
This lab was done to determine the level of Total Phosphates present in the water samples taken
from each of the four coastal zones visited. Minute amounts of phosphorus are required for all
aquatic plants and algae as it is a vital nutrient to these species. An excess amount results in
eutrophication, the condition whereby there’s an excessive richness in nutrients, which results in
increased plant and algal growth. Eutrophication lowers the levels of dissolved oxygen in the
water and makes the water uninhabitable by many aquatic organisms.
It was found that the values for the concentration of the Total Phosphates present in the samples
of water for the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 2.35mg/L, 4.63mg/L, 1.33mg/L and
2.12mg/L respectively. These values were relatively low and as such it would not result in
eutrophication, thus allowing aquatic organisms to live there easily.

57
Data Analysis:
Calculation of Phosphorus –
Phosphorus (mg/L PO4-P) =
phosphates (mg/L PO4)
3.06
Conclusion:
The level Total Phosphates present in the four coastal zones were investigated and determined.
The levels of total phosphates of the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 2.35mg/L,
4.63mg/L, 1.33mg/L and 2.12mg/L respectively. All four coastal zones contained acceptable
levels of total phosphates.
Limitations:

58
Lab 5
Title: Alkalinity
Aim: To determine the alkalinity of the water sample collected for all four Coastal sites
1. 0.00100M H2SO4solution (A1)
2. Three 250 cm3 conical flasks
3. 50mL burette
5. Sample water from each site (B1)
6. Wash bottle with distilled water
7. 25 cm3 pipette
8. Methyl Orange
9. Conical Flask
Procedure:
then tightened quickly under water. The bottle was then labelled “Bottle D” with the
2. A1 (H2SO4) was then placed in a burette
3. 25 cm3 of B1 was then pipetted into a conical flask and two drops of methyl orange
indicator was added.
4. This solution was titrated with A1 until it changed colour from yellow to orange/red.
5. Readings were then recorded in Table 1.
6. The concentration of Alkalinity was determined assuming the following reaction –
H2SO4 + CaCO3 →H2O + CO2 + CaSO4
Table 1 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the Titration ofB1 with A1 at the various sites
Coastal Zone A B C D
Final burette
reading/cm3
6 17 26 29
Initial burette
reading/cm3
0 6 17 26
Volume ofA1
used/cm3
6.1 10.7 9.7 2.2

59
Table 2 – Results ofGroup 1 showing the Alkalinity ofthe various sites
Coastal Zone Alkalinity/mg/L
A 33
B 58
C 53
D 12
Discussion:
This lab was done to determine the level of Alkalinity present in the water samples taken from
each of the four coastal zones visited. Alkalinity refers to the measure of how much acid water
can neutralize. Alkalinity acts as a buffer as it protects water and its life forms from immediate
changes in pH. It was found that the values for the level of Alkalinity present in the samples of
water for the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 33mg/L, 58mg/L, 53mg/L and 12mg/L
respectively. The alkalinity level in coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C” were relatively high and thus
allowing for adequate protection of the water and aquatic organisms which live there against
changes in pH. However, the alkalinity level for coastal zone “D” was low and as such the water
and the aquatic organisms which live there will be highly affected by changes in pH
Data Analysis:
M1V1 = M2V2
M1 = 0.001 Molar H2SO4
V1 = Volume of H2SO4 titre into the conical flask
M2 = Concentration of CaCO3
V2 = 25 ml
Molar Concentration of CaCO3 (mol dm-3) to Mass Concentration of CaCO3 (g dm-3)
 𝑔/𝑑𝑚−3
𝑜𝑓𝐶𝑎𝐶𝑂3 =
M2
136
 𝑇𝑜 𝑚𝑔/𝑑𝑚−3
=
M2
136 × 1000
Conclusion:
The level Alkalinity present in the four coastal zones were investigated and determined. The
Alkalinity levels of the coastal zones “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” were 33mg/L, 58mg/L, 53mg/L and
12mg/L respectively. Coastal zones “A”, “B” and “C” contained an acceptable level of alkalinity
whereas coastal zone “D” contained an unacceptable level which may lead to the death of the
aquatic organisms which live there.

60
Limitations:

CAPE Environmental Science IA Unit 1

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CAPE Environmental Science IA Unit 1