Seasonal variations in Secondary Production of the Mandovi-Zuari Estuarine System of Goa

Abstract

Mean rates of secondary production in the Mandovi, Zuari and Cumbarjua canal, Goa, India were 16.9, 35.9 and 32.4 mg C/m2/day respectively. The general hydrographic conditions of the Zuari were responsible for the higher secondary production. In general, the saline period was more productive (12.9 mg dry wt/m3/day) compared to the low saline period (11 mg dry wt/m3/day). The average secondary production in the estuarine system was 21.4 mg dry wt/m3/day or 1078 tonnes carbon/yr. The coefficient of energy transfer from primary to secondary level was 6.6%. Theoretical estimate of fish biomass in this estuarine system was 1007 tonnes/yr.