Distribution and abundance of thaliaceans in the northwest continental shelf of South China Sea, with response to environmental factors driven by monsoon

► This paper reported that distribution and abundance of thaliaceans in the northwest continental shelf of South China Sea for the first time. ► The seasonal and regional fluctuations of thaliaceans and environmental factors may be the consequence of the monsoon influence, in which seasonal fluctuations of coastal currents and temperature are in contrast to each other. ► The presence of coastal upwelling and cold eddy creates an area with high Chl a concentration that is favorable and conducive to the development of thaliacean patches.