Journal of Environmental Biology

Distribution and abundance of zooplankton in relation to petroleum hydrocarbon content along the coast of Kollam (Quilon), south west coast of India

 

B.S. Sharma*¹ and Wilma Cyril²

¹Department of Environmental Studies, School of Life Sciences

Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, Khandari Campus, Agra-282 002, India

²Department of Chemistry, Fatima Mata National College, Kollam-690 013, India

(Received: 15 March, 2005 ; Revised received: September 20, 2005 ; Accepted: 10 October, 2005)

 

Abstract: ?In the present study, we examine status, impact and trends in prevailing situation of coastal ecosystem of Chavara, Neendakara, Tangasseri and Paravur zones of Kollam coast in terms of zooplankton density and petroleum hydrocarbon content (PHC). Zooplankton samples and water samples were collected during the period May 2003 to June 2004. The numerical count of zooplankton made and PHC content estimated. Paravur offshore recorded the maximum zooplankton count (1390 no./m³) and Tangasseri nearshore the lowest (700.5 no/m³). The petroleum hydrocarbon content was highest at Tangasseri nearshore (21.95 ?g/l) and lowest at Paravur offshore (9.40?g/l). We also observe statistically significant negative correlation between zooplankton density and PHC for a few organisms. The overall impact appears minor, yet, coastal ocean monitoring imperative for sustainable development.

 

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