Hydrographic conditions in the fishing grounds off Mukka-Kaup, South Kanara

Abstract

Air and water temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen at surface along the South Kanara Coast showed double oscillation during the thirteen month period of observation. Maximum annual range of temperature was 8.2 degrees C in the surface waters and 9.3 degrees C in the bottom waters. The maximum annual range in salinity was 5.63 ppt in surface waters and 5.42 ppt in bottom waters. Relatively low oxygen values in bottom waters during August and May could perhaps be due to the upwelling occurring at this time in this part of the coastline. Transparency was maximum in the summer and minimum during the south-west monsoon. pH was lowest in August