Study on nitrogen and phosphorus contamination in sediment of foul-smelling waters in the rural areas of Wuhan

This research examined the data on water quality and nitrogen and phosphorus levels in sediment from 120 foul-smelling water bodies in the rural area of Wuhan. The current pollution levels in the water and sediment were assessed using a comprehensive pollution index method and organic index method. The findings revealed that 87% of the foul-smelling water bodies were contaminated with nitrogen and phosphorus, with 50% experiencing excessive levels of both. Notably, nitrogen pollution was more severe in streams and trenches compared to ponds. The sediment was found to be 100% polluted by Total Nitrogen (TN), Organic Nitrogen (ON), and Total Phosphorus (TP), and 70.4% contaminated by organic pollutants. There was a significant positive correlation observed among TN, TP, and NH_3-N indicators. However, no significant correlation was found between Organic Matter (OM), TN, and TP in the sediment. Overall, it was determined that the pollution in the rural water bodies of Wuhan was primarily a result of external sources.