Mud Banks of Kerala-Their Formation and Characteristics

Abstract

Mud banks become clearly demarcated as areas of calm water adjoining the Kerala coast,
\nduring the roughest SW monsoon conditions prevailing in the Arabian Sea. The appearance
\nof mud banks is associated with an increase in the constancy and force of wind towards the east.
\nSurface currents at that time run parallel to the coast and record -maximum velocity. During
\nJune and July, strong swells approach the SW coast. Along the continental shelf, between
\nMangalore and Quilon, the nature of bottom from about 3•5 to 18 m depth is largely muddy.
\nMud banks occur as small elevations of consolidated mud throughout the year.