| In the deepest parts of the estuarine region of Ebrie Lagoon (Abidjan Africa, (5 degree N, 4 degree W) stratified conditions have been observed during the rainy season (May to Nov.), owing to salinity differences between oxic and anoxic layers. At the interface, 3-4 m depth, phototrophic bacteria (Chromatium, Chlorobium and Pelodictyon ) developed, forming a brown layer due to their different pigments. Their production has been estimated at 41% of the total photosynthetic production during high stratification (Sep. 1981) and their biomass was used by the copepod population for 40 to 60% of its diet. During the dry season, the water column became homogeneous and oxygen was detected to 6m depth. The brown layer of phototrophic bacteria disappeared, as well... |
