Distribution of phytoplankton in the coastal waters of east coast of India

Abstract

In the present study qualitative and quantitative distribution of phytoplankton with regional and seasonal variations in the coastal waters of east coast of India are presented out of the pooled data of 292 stations sampled during 12 cruises of FORV Sagar Sampada from 1999 to 2002. The study recorded 131 species of dinoflagellates, 111 species of diatoms and 7 species of Cyanophyta. Southeast coastal region has more endemic forms (34 species) than the northeast region (29 species). Quantitatively very low mean densities (1 to 367 nos l -1 ) are observed. Regionally, 143 species are present at all the latitudes between 11°N and 20°N. Seasonally, monsoon season recorded more number of phytoplankton (193) species. The study indicates the high diversity and low production of phytoplankton in the coastal waters of east coast of India.