Seasonal variations of the oceanographic conditions off the southwest coast of India during 1971-1975

Abstract

As part of a survey of the coastal fish resources off the southwest coast of India, the UNDP/ FAO (United Nations Development Programme/Food and Agriculture Organization) Pelagic Fishery Project, Cochin, collected environmental data from June 1971 through October 1975. Based on these data, the oceanographic conditions during the 4-year period are discussed. The seasonal variations are highly repetitive from year to year. An uplift of water onto the shelf begins in March or April. Associated with a south-flowing current, this type of upwelling lasts throughout the SW monsoon period until September-October. A northflowing coastal current from November-December through January-February is associated with an influx of low-salinity water from the south. The environmental variations on the shelf are reflected in seasonal biological events.