The annual cycle of nutrient salts and chlorophyll-A in the coastal waters of Jeddah, Red Sea

Abstract EN

The annual cycle of inorganic nutrients and chlorophyll-a have been examined monthly in the coastal waters of Jeddah at nine stations from June 1993 to May, 1994.

The rapid and unprecedented industrial development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia especially at Jeddah has resulted in the discharge of partially treated or untreated sewage in the coastal waters.

Because of the potential importance of inorganic micro-nutrients as limiting factors affecting the growth of phytoplankton, the levels of nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, phosphate and silicate contents were determined.

The sampled area extends from South Corniche in the South of Jeddah to Obhur Creek in the north.

Statistical analysis to seek correlations between physio-chemical parameters and chlorophyll-a did not show good correlation which may be due to irregular coastal environment.