Zooplancton e hidrodinámica en zonas litorales y arrecifales de Quintana Roo, México

Abstract

An analysis of the processes affecting the small-scale distribution of zooplankton in coastal and reef zones of the Mexican Caribbean, is presented herein. This analysis was based upon the available information on the local zooplankton and on the interpretation of these data with regard to previously described hydrologic and physiographic patterns. Zooplankton behaviour over reef areas depends on characteristics of the flow affecting the area. These microscale flows promote zooplankton accumulations in certain zones; transverse flows produce minor zooplankton concentrations in the areas where the barrier is interrupted, these are transitional areas between the neritic zone and the reef-lagoon. Turbulence is a relevant factor on the reef-zooplankton trophic dynamics. In general, along Quintana Roo's coast, zooplankton tends to derivate towads the coast. This promotes a periodical input of neritic and oceanic forms into coastal systems such as Bahía de la Ascención. There is evidence showing that zooplankton along the reef zone of Quintana Roo is homogeneous both, in its general composition, and in th distribution of certain species or of rare groups.