Marine Ecosystem studies with focus on forcing mechanisms and algal blooms

Introduction

The change in SST and level of nutrients have increased the frequency of algal blooms in the marine environment. Some of these algal blooms are harmful to life in one way or other. The exact mechanism by which the harmful algal bloom formation is triggered is still not completely understood. The increase in the frequency and severity of the harmful algal blooms world-wide calls for attention by the scientists.

Objectives

• To improve the description of bio-optical and physical interactions of the estuaries, coastal regions and open ocean; quantification of algae and water quality parameters and understanding forcing mechanisms.
• To build up specialized knowledge to develop algorithms needed; validation of geophysical products from the new satellite sensors and application in research and operational services.
• Dissemination of the scientific knowledge on coastal zone through awareness programmes.

Approach

Mainly coordinated through the research collaboration with Ocean Colour group of the Nansen Centres through application of Satellite Remote Sensing with insitu measurements and GIS Applications.

Satellite remote sensing offers the capacity of relatively inexpensive, regular and global monitoring of oceans and coasts. NERCI involves in Satellite remote sensing data analysis and interpolation for ocean and coastal zone applications, Development and validation of algorithms for satellite remote sensing data analysis in combination with field experiments.

The upwelling associated with the southwest monsoon persists during August is imaged here along with presence of colder waters as observed along the prominent upwelling sites of Somali and Arabian Coast and the adjoining areas also exhibit lower SSH. During this month warmer waters are observed in Bay of Bengal and in the central Indian Ocean.

OCEAN COLOUR GROUP IN THE NANSEN CENTRE

Key Personnels at NERCI

Prof. N. R. Menon, Associate Scientist and Director
Dr. K. Ajith Joseph, Sr. Scientist and Ex. Director
Dr. N. Nandini Menon, Sr. Scientist and Deputy Director
Lasse H. Pettersson, Associate Scientist (Visiting)
Ms. Smitha, A. Senior Research Fellow

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