Primary production at two contrasting nearshore sites in the southern Benguela upwelling region, 1977—1979

Abstract

Phytoplankton biomass and production were measured at two sites in the coastal waters of the southern Benguela upwelling region during 1977—1979. Mean annual biomass for the nearshore euphotic zone was estimated at 80 mg chll a·m−2 and production at 1 254 g C·m−2·y−1. Despite parameters being more variable in summer (the upwelling season) than in winter, integrated values were surprisingly similar. During the upwelling season, production and biomass levels at a site where active upwelling occurred were about half those at an adjacent site where the water column was more stable.