Variation in meroplankton along 78 degrees E Meridian

Abstract

Variations along the meridian 78 degrees E between 8 degrees N and 25 degrees S, based on 43 zooplankton samples were studied. Fish larvae exhibited fluctuations in abundance (26 to 57 specimens/IOSN haul) in the three zones studied (8 degrees N-5 degrees S, 5 degrees S-15 degrees S and 15 degrees S-23 degrees S). Fish eggs showed variations within the zones, having a maximum of 1 to 5 in Zone B. While greater variations of 1 to 4 were shown in Zone B by the bivalve larvae, it was less in other zones. Marked variations among the anthozoan, cephalopod and sipunculoid larvae were not discernible in the different zones owing to their low occurrence