Journal d'océanographie et de recherche marine
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Distribution and Diversity of Seaweed Species in South Coastal Waters in Sri Lanka

Amal D Premarathna*, Kumara AMCP, Anura P Jayasooriya, Jayanetti DE, Ranjith B Adhikari, Sarvananda L and Amarakoon S

Seaweeds are aquatic angiosperms, which are widespread in many coastal settings. Due to their various type of application, for instance, therapeutic agents, they are considered as one of the key environmental resources. In order to find out the diversity, abundance and pattern of species distribution of algae, a study was carried out in the three selected south coastal areas in the sand plain (Ahagama, Talpe and Koggala) in Sri Lanka. Quadrats method and three-line transects (horizontal & vertical) with 15 m length laid perpendicular from shore were adopted to collect data. Diversity was determined by Shannon-Wiener diversity index and quality of seawater (water temperature, pH, and salinity and dissolved oxygen) was also determined. Statistical analysis revealed significant difference in distribution and diversity between Sargassum and Ulva species in three study area. “Shannon-Wiener” diversity index value indicated a close relationship of the diversity in Koggala and Ahangama when compared to Talpe. It was also obvious that a positive correlation (P<0.05) existed between Sargassum ilicifolum and Ulva lactuca. This study provides clear evidence that patterns and habitats of Sargassum ilicifolum and Ulva lactuca differ along the south coastline in Sri Lanka.