Primary productivity in Minicoy atoll (Lakshadweep) of Arabian Sea

Abstract

Primary productivity in Minicoy atoll during 1990 - 1992 was estimated from five stations around the island from the diurnal curves prepared for dissolved oxygen. Areas characterised by seagrass beds recorded a maximum productivity of 3.48 g Cm3 d and the open sea registered a minimum of 0.97g Cm3d, with an average productivity of 2.42 g cm3 d. Major contribution of NPP was due to seagrasses (54 %) and seaweeds (31 %). Since the results indicated heterotrophic conditions, the need to protect the highly productive seagrass beds in Minicoy atoll against human interferences is projected.