Journal of Aquaculture Research & Development

Copepod s distribution, spatial and temporal variability between Cape Blanc (21°N) and Cape Boujdour (26°N): Spatial distribution and structure (Moroccan Atlantic Coast)

3^rd International Conference on Aquaculture & Fisheries

September 29-October 01, 2016 London, UK

Laila El Arraj, Tazi O and Ettahiri O

Faculté des Sciences Aîn Chock, Morocco
Institut National de Recherche Halieutique (INRH), Morocco

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Aquac Res Development

Abstract:

In order to evaluate mesozooplanktonâ??s distribution and diversity within the south Atlantic Moroccan coast, two surveys were carried out between Cape Blanc (21°N) and Cape Boujdour (26°N) during two seasons (autumn 2011 and summer 2012) hydrologically different. Referring to densities distribution and structural indexes measured of the population, a clear difference between the south part of Dakhla region (24°N) and north is noticed. The south part remains the richest and more diversified. The cluster analysis has confirmed the same results. Actually, this area is extremely rich in both phytoplankton (primary production) and zooplankton (secondary production). The group of copepods is clearly dominant in all stations sampled during both seasons (more than 90%) followed by cladocerans and chaetognathes. During fall, copepods composition is dominated by the species Oncaea venusta (44%), Clausocalanus arcuicornus (18%) while in summer Acartia clausi (18%) and Clausocalanus arcuicornus (15%) are dominant.

Biography :

Laila El Arraj has completed her Master degree from Hassan II University of Casablanca, Faculty of Science Ain Chock. She is now pursuing her PhD on “Mesozooplankton’s vertical diversity and distribution in relation to upwelling activity on the Atlantic Moroccan coast”. She has published three papers in reputed journals and has attended to seven international congresses. She has been also organization member of many congresses at Hassan II University.

Email: elarraj@gmail.com