Palynological Analysis to interpret Inputs and Paleoenvironmental Conditions of Tidal Flat Sediments in the Wouri Estuary

This study examines the environmental significance of microfossils in specifically pollens, spore and cuticles in understanding paleoenvironment and sediments inputs in Tidal flats in the tropical Wouri estuary. Palynological slides of sediments from different depths with two sediment cores from the east and Western flanks of the Wouri estuary were examined using a trinocular microscope. Results showed the predominance of pollens families of Rhizophoraceae and Poaceae at different depths. Cuticles also varied with depth in both the West and east Wouri sediments cores. The Rhizophoraceae family are interpreted to indicate coastal and mangrove environment inputs into the sediments of the tidal flats, reflecting saline and intertidal conditions. Their presence in the sediment layers suggests periods of high sea levels or proximity to marine influences. In contrast, the presence of Poaceae pollen are interpreted to suggest inputs from drier environments such as savannahs and grasslands. The cuticles are interpreted to indicate cuticle marking shifts toward arid or more open landscapes. Additionally, plant cuticle analysis provides insight into how vegetation adapted to varying moisture levels, helping to differentiate between humid, dry, and coastal environments over time. By linking these microfossils to their respective paleoenvironments, this research contributes to understanding historical fluctuations in climate, sea levels, and plant distribution in the sediment in the tidal flats of the Wouri estuary.