Studies on primary and secondary production in relation to hydrography in the inshore waters of Tuticorin

Abstract

The results of hydrobiological investigations oonducted in the inshore waters off Tuticorin during
\n1983-84 have been presented. The primary production estimated by oxygen technique indicated three
\ndistinct peak periods, the first during January-March, the second during June-August and the third
\nduring October-December. The trend of secondary production closely followed that of primary
\nproduction. Zooplankters were found to be abundant during May-September and again a
\nshort secondary peak was noticed during November-January. The occurrence of different zooplankters
\nshowed a definite seasonal fluctuation. The physico-chemical properties of the seawater showed
\nvariations in space and time. A general picture of the environmental conditions of the inshore area,
\nbased on the earlier observations along with the present observations of primary and secondary
\nproduction are discussed in this account.