Thalassina anamola (Mud Lobster)

(Date: 24th November 2012, Location: Sementa Mangrove) 

This type of Shrimps named lobsters are responsible for the mounds that you can observe in the mangrove area; they dig and feed on the organic matter in the mud piling up volcano shape mounds.

This in turn helps mangrove area to recycle nutrients; by paving way for air and oxygenated water to enter the otherwise oxygen deprived soil. In addition these mounds also serve as temporary accommodation for juvenile sea creatures during low tide, as they tend to gather small water pools. 

Something that can save the world

"50% of all human disease is because of water borne pathogens" Dean Kamen

What is pH?

pH stands for power of Hydrogen; and is a measure of negative base 10 log of molar concentration of Hydrogen ions. pH scale ranges from 0 to 14; with pH's less then 7 being acidic and those above 7 being basic and pH 7 indicating neutral pH level. 

The level of pH in a water body is important, as most organisms function (biological functions) within a narrow range of pH. Therefore it is important to ensure pH levels are within acceptable range for proper function of ecosystems. For examples low pH levels can lead to heavy metal ions to dissolve in water and making it toxic for some organisms. 

Maintenance of pH level is not only important in water bodies, but also for that supplied for human consumption and use; high pH levels can results in depositions on the water supply pipes clogging them. In addition, high pH levels can make drinking water taste bitter and reduce the overall efficacy of disinfectants such as Chlorine, leading to more water borne diseases. 

On the other hand low pH level can result in corrosion of water supply pipes.