
Submerged soils, initially formed under upland conditions and later waterlogged due to rising groundwater, flooding, excessive irrigation or sea level rise, present unique challenges for nutrient availability, especially phosphorus (P). Under anoxic conditions, submergence alters soil redox potential and pH, significantly influencing P dynamics. In the early stages, phosphorus availability increases due to processes such as organic matter mineralization, solubilisation of Fe and Al-bound phosphates, and reductive dissolution of iron oxides. However, over time, phosphorus availability declines as fixation occurs through interactions with clay minerals like kaolinite, montmorillonite, and hydrous oxides of Fe and Al. Thus, emphasis on the importance of understanding the complex behaviour of phosphorus in submerged, anoxic environments for effective nutrient management is crucial.