A study of medusae from Andaman and Nicobar waters

Abstract

The results obtained from 14 cruises undertaken by FORV Sagar Sampada during the period 1986-1990 from Andaman and Nicobar waters are detailed. 346 zooplankton collections were made during this period and medusae were found from 307 stations. A total of 57 species of hydromedusae belonging to 21 families have been studied. Diurnal variation was discernible and the maximum numerical abundance was noticed from night collections. Highest density was observed during monsoon period. Annual variation also was noticeable in the area. Aglaura hemistoma, Liriope tetraphylla, Rhopalonema velatum, Solmundella bitentaculata, Cytaeis tetrastyla, Phialidium hemisphaericum and Bougainvillia fulva were the abundantly occurring species. B. bitentaculata and Cnidocodon leopoldi are new records from Andaman and Nicobar waters and Bay of Bengal.