Structure of microzooplankton in Iranian waters of the Persian Gulf

Abstract

Introduction: This research was conducted in order to investigate the microzooplankton
population structure in Iranian waters of the Persian Gulf (Hormozgan, Bushehr and
Khuzestan provinces).
Materials & Methods: Sampling was carried out by plankton net of 100 micron, equipped
with a flowmeter for 10 minutes. All samples were transferred to laboratory. Regarding to
standard methods, Subsample is prepared by a divider and subjected to microscopic analysis
by Bogarov (Bazarov) slide. Identification and numeration were done by valid books, keys
and reliable sites. Also, density was determined.
Results: During this investigation, microzooplankton were identified with 12 phyla.
Arthropoda phyla, Copepoda class belonging to this phyla, had a higher density and
distribution than other phylums. The Arthropoda phyla had a higher diversity and density
than the other phylums. From this phylum, the class of copepod, calanoid copepod with 11
genera and 14 species, Cyclopoida with 3 genera and 7 species, Harpacticoida with 3 genera
and 3 species were present. The phylums of Chaetognatha, Mollusca, Chordata and
Ciliophora) were observed respectively after the arthropod phylum. The waters of
Hormozgan and Bushehr showed more structural similarity of microzooplankton than the
waters of Khuzestan. The average total density of microzooplankton from Hormozgan
towards Khuzestan increased, but the diversity was accompanied by a decrease.
Conclusion: The waters of Hormozgan, based on the biological indicators calculated from
higher biodiversity, were less polluted than the waters of Bushehr and Khuzestan, which
indicates stability and favorable conditions for More species can be established in this water
zone.