Abstract

The seasonal variations of primary and net production were studied during July 2014 to June 2015 in Muthupet mangroves (Lat.10° 46' N; Long.79° 51’E ) south east coast of India. Throughout the study period, a total of 17 species of zooplankton in Muthupet estuary were identified. The copepods constituted the major component of the zooplankton population throughout the study period. The cladocerans like Daphina sp. and Monia sp. were recorded during the monsoon and post monsoon periods in Muthupet estuary. In the present study, Acrocalanus gracilis, Acartia kempi, Microstella sp., Paracalanus parvus, Tintinnopsis phillipensis. T.tocannitinensis. Daphina sp., Monia sp., Brachionus sp., Keretella, Lucifer hanseni, nauplii of copepods, veliger of gastropods, zoea of crabs, eggs of fishes, Acaratia erthrea and Dictyocysta eseshaiyai were found in Muthupet estuary. The population density in Muthupet estuary ranged from a minimum of 8690 individuals/m3 in November 2014 to the maximum of 79950 individuals/m3 in June 2015. Annual average population densities of zooplankton were higher in Muthupet estuary. In general, the seasonal mean population density was maximum during summer and pre monsoon periods. Minimum population density was found during monsoon period. 

Keywords

Seasonal variations, Zooplankton, Diversity, Muthupet estuary.

Received on 13/07/2016, Accepted on 29/08/2016, Published on 20/10/2016