Seaweed distribution on diversity on the intertidal rocks at Nochiyurani coast of Gulf of Mannar

Abstract

The present study deals with 21 seaweed species from the intertidal rocks at nine sampling stations along Nochiyurani coast during six month period from January to June 2014. Among the different species of seaweeds, the dominant species Gracilaria corticata in all the sampling stations indicated it's adaptability to the surf zone. Acanthophora spicifera and Caulerpa scalpellifomis var. denticulata were the next two dominant species. The present study reveals that intertidal rocks occurring along the entire coast of Nochiyurani offer suitable substratum for the luxuriant growth of seaweeds. The lack of anthropogenic activity along this coast favours for the good growth of different seaweeds.