Distribution and seasonal variation of the benthic fauna of Vizhinjam inshore water, south-west coast of India

Abstract

Distribution, abundance and ecology of the benthic fauna have been reported from Vizhinjam harbour-an area of intensive fishing activity and aquaculture. Salinity and temperature were found to be most fluctuating parameters. Highest values of the population density and biomass were recorded during November and lowest during February. Polychaetes and crustaceans were dominant groups among the invertebrates