Study on the influence of hydro-chemical parameters on phytoplankton distribution along Tapi estuarine area of Gulf of Khambhat, India

Physicochemical properties play a major role in determining the density, diversity and occurrence of phytoplankton in an estuarine ecosystem. The present study is conducted to assess the relationship between physicochemical parameters and phytoplankton assemblages which in turn can serve as a suitable method to assess the quality of estuarine ecosystem. Results showed an increased concentration in physicochemical parameters and phytoplankton density during post-monsoon season followed by pre-monsoon and monsoon season. Canonical correspondence Analysis (CCA) between environmental variables and dominant taxa of phytoplankton indicated the influence of freshwater on phytoplankton distribution in the estuarine precinct.