Seasonal Association of Physico-Chemical Parameters and Phytoplankton Density in Mbo River, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract—A one year research (December, 2009 to November, 2010) was carried out to assess the effect of environmental variables on phytoplankton density in Mbo River. Phytoplankton composition and water quality parameters were determined, all using standard methods. The hypothesis tested was that shift in season affect the water quality characteristics and plankton density, and is modulated by the temporal rainfall changes. The databases obtained were subjected to Pearson correlation matrix. The result of the correlation matrix indicated that some variables (dissolved oxygen, air temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids and nitrate- nitrogen) had a good, positive (≥0.45) relationship with phytoplankton irrespective of the seasons. Contrary to this some other parameters (water level, color and total suspended solids) had good but negative (≥0.45) correlation with phytoplankton density in the two seasons. The observation and information from this research will serve as baseline data for future reference and in formulating policies and regulatory frame work for sustainable management of Mbo River.