Influence of phytoplankton biomass on anchovy catches in Unguja and Pemba Channels

Project Report , 2022 , 46 Pages

Geography / Earth Science - Oceanography

This work aims to analyse the spatial and temporal variation of phytoplankton biomass in the eastern parts of the Unguja and Pemba Channels and its impact on anchovy catches. Secondary data from anchovy catches and Chl-a concentrations will be used as a proxy for phytoplankton biomass to gain important ecological and fisheries science insights.

The study by Edward Paul, submitted to the University of Dar es Salaam, addresses the important role of phytoplankton as primary producers in aquatic ecosystems. Using secondary data on anchovy catches and Chl-a concentrations as a measure of phytoplankton biomass, the study examines the spatial and temporal variation of this biomass in the eastern parts of the Unguja and Pemba Channels and its impact on fisheries. Chl-a concentrations were found to be higher in Unguja than in Pemba, with significant differences between seasons. Interestingly, anchovy catches were higher in the Pemba Channel, with the correlation between Chl-a and anchovy catches being positive but not significant. These results provide important insights for fisheries science and the protection of marine ecosystems.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• 1. Introduction
• 1.1. Background
• 1.2. Statement of the Problem
• 1.3. Objectives
• 1.4. Research Questions
• 1.5. Scope of the Study
• 2. Literature Review
• 2.1. Distribution and Abundance of Phytoplankton
• 2.2. The Role of Phytoplankton in the Marine Ecosystem
• 2.3. Factors Affecting Phytoplankton Biomass
• 2.4. Impacts of Phytoplankton Abundance on Anchovy
• 3. Methodology
• 3.1. Study Area
• 3.2. Data Collection
• 3.3. Data Analysis
• 4. Results and Discussion
• 4.1. Phytoplankton Biomass
• 4.2. Anchovy Catch
• 4.3. Relationship between Phytoplankton Biomass and Anchovy Catch
• 5. Conclusion and Recommendations

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This research project aims to investigate the spatial and temporal variations of phytoplankton biomass in the eastern parts of Unguja and Pemba channels, focusing on the relationship between these variations and anchovy catches in the region.

• Spatial and temporal variability of phytoplankton biomass.
• Factors influencing phytoplankton abundance.
• Relationship between phytoplankton biomass and anchovy catches.
• Impact of environmental factors on anchovy distribution and abundance.
• Management strategies for sustainable anchovy fishing in the region.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Chapter 1: Introduction: This chapter introduces the background information on the importance of phytoplankton and its role in the marine ecosystem, particularly in relation to anchovy fisheries. It defines the research problem, states the study objectives, research questions, and scope of the study.
• Chapter 2: Literature Review: This chapter provides an overview of existing knowledge on the distribution and abundance of phytoplankton, factors affecting their biomass, and the impact of phytoplankton abundance on anchovy fisheries. It explores relevant literature and research findings related to the study's focus areas.
• Chapter 3: Methodology: This chapter describes the study area, including its geographic characteristics and environmental factors. It outlines the data collection methods used, such as field sampling, remote sensing, and secondary data analysis. The chapter also explains the data analysis techniques employed to investigate the relationships between phytoplankton biomass, anchovy catch, and environmental variables.
• Chapter 4: Results and Discussion: This chapter presents the findings of the study, including the spatial and temporal patterns of phytoplankton biomass, anchovy catches, and the relationship between these variables. It analyzes the data and discusses the implications of the results in the context of the research objectives and existing literature.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The research focuses on phytoplankton biomass, anchovy catches, spatial and temporal variability, environmental factors, marine ecosystem, fisheries management, Unguja and Pemba channels, and Southwest Indian Ocean.

• Author: Edward Paul (Author)
• Publication Year: 2022
• Pages: 46
• Catalog Number: V1442130
• ISBN (PDF): 9783964879837
• ISBN (Book): 9783964879844
• Language: English
• Tags: Phytoplankton biomass, Anchovy catches, Unguja Channel, Pemba Channel, Chl-a concentration