Temporal Dynamics and Structure of the Microalgae Community (Diatoms, Dinoflagellates, Cyanophytes, and Chlorophytes) in Coastal Waters of Las Peñitas
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5377/ribcc.v11i21.22151Keywords:
Dynamics, Community, Microalgae, Neubauer, MarineAbstract
Background: Microphytoplankton is an essential component of aquatic ecosystems, sustaining overall primary productivity and modifying the environmental conditions of coastal waters. The objective of this study
was to determine the temporal dynamics and structure of the microalgal community (diatoms, dinoflagellates, cyanobacteria, and chlorophytes) in the coastal waters of Las Peñitas. Materials and methods: Ocean water samples were collected over one year (January–December 2021), and the microphytoplankton was taxonomically characterized using Neubauer and Sedgewick-Rafter camera microscopy, with the support of photographic manuals. Results: Fifty-five genera distributed among 38 families were recorded: diatoms (35 genera and 26 families), dinoflagellates (14 genera and 7 families), cyanobacteria (4 genera and 3 families), and chlorophytes (2 genera and 2 families). In percentage terms, diatoms represented 61% of the genera, dinoflagellates 28%, cyanobacteria 7%, and chlorophytes 4%. Most diatom genera appeared throughout the 12 months, notably Nitzschia spp., Chaetoceros spp., and Skeletonema spp., while dinoflagellates showed seasonal variations, with greater diversity during months of thermal stratification. Among the cyanobacteria, Aphanocapsa spp. was continuously present, indicating stable integration into the coastal phytoplankton, while Merismopedia spp. Chlorophytes (Coelastrum spp., Ankistrodesmus spp.)
showed seasonal presence associated with continental runoff and temporary decreases in salinity. Conclusion: Fifty-five genera were recorded in 38 families: diatoms (61%), dinoflagellates (28%), cyanobacteria (7%), and chlorophytes (4%). Diatoms were dominant year-round, while dinoflagellates, cyanobacteria, and chlorophytes showed seasonal variations linked to nutrients and salinity.
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